MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand 2025

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Moral occupies an old mansion that skilfully combines the building’s cutting-edge design with its original structure and floor. The key tenets here are a constant desire to improve alongside plenty of enthusiasm from the young chefs (Icíar and Juan Carlos) at the helm. They are now following their own dream having previously worked in leading restaurants (Icíar Pérez, for example, was the chef at Poemas by Hermanos Padrón). Their cuisine, which first and foremost aims to showcase the flavours of the island, is centred around a concise à la carte plus a creatively inspired tasting menu, with a continual focus on excellent technique and superb textures (one of the most popular dishes is crayfish with boiled mojo sauce). The tasting menu also provides a perfect opportunity to explore the culinary identity of the Canary Islands in more detail.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Regional Cuisine. Centrally located along a pedestrian street, this modern restaurant takes its name from an expression that the area’s older inhabitants once used to refer to those who were attracted to the more luxurious things in life and who wouldn’t eat just anything! Chef Cristóbal Castillo, who spent many years working alongside the award-winning Francis Paniego (El Portal de Echaurren, Ezcaray), has the firm intention of showcasing the products of the Rioja region from a more contemporary angle, with a strong focus on fresh ingredients straight from the market. The à la carte, split into evocatively named sections such as ‘Ve calentándote el morro’, ‘¡Arriba la cuchara y la huerta!’ and ‘Golmajería’ (desserts), is complemented by two set menus: the daily ‘Todos los Morros’ and the tasting-style ‘Morro Tango’. Ask for their delicious stews and don't miss the sirloin steak with Hunter’s sauce, Café de Paris butter and potatoes!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. A restaurant-cum-taberna that continues to win over foodies, where the simple urban ambience comes as a pleasant surprise. Here, the chef is keen for the open-view kitchen behind the bar to take centre stage, creating exciting, technically adept and contemporary dishes with a creative twist and a street-food feel, while at the same time respecting traditional flavours. The à la carte offers dishes to share, backed up by two tastings menus (Origen and Morrofino) and attractive culinary creations that occasionally showcase interesting, internationally inspired fusions. We were particularly surprised and impressed by the smoked butter croquette with prawns and garlic.

Bib Gourmand • Rice Dishes, Farm to table. Located in a small village just a few kilometres north of Valencia, Napicol is run by a family heavily involved in the business and is one of those restaurants where agriculture is very much part of its DNA. You won’t find any set menus here; instead, chef Chemo Rausell conjures up cuisine that includes plenty of dishes that do not feature on the à la carte and which change with the seasons (the restaurant is next to an organic garden that provides many of his day-to-day ingredients). He also cooks delicious rice dishes to order and organises food-themed days dedicated to traditional recipes. A delightful terrace-garden and a well-curated wine cellar, featuring a selection of champagnes from small-scale producers, add to its appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. In a town such as Hervás that is so popular with tourists, it is always encouraging to find a restaurant like this offering contemporary dining but without completely sidelining traditional cuisine. Located along a pedestrianised street in the centre of town, it boasts a summer terrace, a bar counter, and a dining room on two floors. They offer updated traditional cuisine that always celebrates Valle del Ambroz produce, with a seasonal menu (notable for its fish of the day) and two tasting menus (L and XL). What to try? Don't miss the crispy suckling pig, confit with orange aroma, or one of the off-menu dishes.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Rice Dishes. A skilfully restored 18C property that now boasts a pleasant glass-fronted porch and two stylish dining rooms, both with a contemporary feel but with rustic details such as wood and open stonework. Owner-chef Natxo Sellés is an advocate of updated traditional cuisine that is keen to extol the virtues of seasonal ingredients (he changes the à la carte several times a year) which he complements with different set menu options (Picaeta and Natxo Sellés). The stars of the show here are his many savoury rice dishes (both creamy and paella varieties) and the traditional oxtail stew. Gluten-free dishes are also available.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Fusion. Honesty is raised to a new level here thanks to the open-view kitchen which is a clear demonstration that this restaurant has nothing to hide! Chef Eduardo Albiol creates cuisine that is both personal and different, adding a modern take to traditional recipes through the use of culinary touches and ingredients from other parts of the world, hence his dishes inspired by the Mediterranean, Asia and South America. His customers are his only benchmarks, so he is constantly attuned to their reaction with the hope that his cuisine will receive their full blessing! Excellent value for money!

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. Under this name, which automatically takes us into the world of dreams, we have found one of those establishments that we would all like to visit; it illustrates that the most longed-for and unattainable projects can become reality. The tandem at the helm, with Jonatan Izquierdo behind the burners and Laura Humanes in charge of everything in the dining room, champions a proposal of modern cuisine built from common sense, with a small menu and three interesting menus: Herrén (executive-style, only at midday during the week), Oníric and Somni. One dish that we loved? The risky but convincing conger eel buñuelos, green curry, coconut and tamarind.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Located on the ground floor of an old stone building (the same one that houses the two-Michelin-star El Molino de UrdÁniz), Origen showcases the cooking of award-winning chef David Yárnoz, albeit in a much more informal and relaxed format. Directly accessed from the street, it features a rustic-contemporary dining room, bare wood tables and a fixed-price menu (where you choose a starter, main course and dessert), including dishes such as the delicious glazed and baked organic trout with pickled beetroot and parsnips, that adopts a contemporary take on traditional and regional dishes. The continual focus here is on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, with the option of ordering half-portions.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This classic family-run restaurant founded in 1975 by the grandparents of current owner Francisco Domínguez has moved with the times and now presents a much more appealing modern feel that showcases the evolution of this renowned eatery. The café-bar at the entrance leads to a bistro-style dining room with an open-view kitchen. Here, the focus is on a single, contemporary-style tasting menu that changes every two months approximately and is centred around seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. An added option here is the extensive brunch available at the weekend. One dish that we particularly enjoyed on our last visit was the sea bass escabeche with carrot purée, a garlic refrito salsa and dried fruits.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Regional Cuisine. This attractive large house by the main road boasts an unusual name (a type of sorrel that is found in fields of maize) and cuisine that comes as a pleasant surprise. It features a pleasant terrace, a gastro-bar with high tables perfect for tapas and raciones, plus a contemporary dining room with a rustic decor. The cooking here takes its inspiration from both the region and what’s in season, including top-quality local fish, delicious steak tartare, and tasty stews prepared with Pedresa chicken, a breed that is commonly known as “picasuelo” in Cantabria.

Bib Gourmand • Rice Dishes, Traditional Cuisine. A restaurant with a modern, relaxed Mediterranean feel where equality is very much to the fore, with the owner-chef often keeping an eye on the dining room and explaining dishes to guests. Although Pau’s delicious rice dishes are particularly renowned, everything is delicious here thanks to a focus on cooking that showcases local products with an added hint of creativity. Choose from three well-crafted menus at lunchtime (including one executive-style menu) and two in the evening, the latter with the option of choosing dishes from the à la carte. The pleasant musical ambience completes the picture here.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Located in the centre of Carballo, this friendly, family-run restaurant continues to attract new customers daily! Chef Rocío Martínez was keen to spice up the dining options in the local Bergantiños region (“pementa” is the Galician word for “pepper”) with her updated take on traditional and regional cuisine with a touch of fusion, but always focusing on Galicia’s superb seasonal ingredients and paying homage to the gastronomic heritage of the Costa da Morte along with a strong emphasis on detail. A private dining room is also available for those requiring more privacy. Dishes that appear on the menu include albacore tuna with pepper, lime and coriander foam, and “kikos”; rice with monkfish and cockles; and “filloa”-filled pastry with rice pudding and rum and raisin ice-cream.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. If you’re looking for something different you’ll find it here, as the focus of the couple in charge (María and Miguel Ángel) is on fusion cooking that combines the flavours of India, Morocco, France, Japan etc. It now boasts a more spacious layout following its move to a new central location in Plaza de San Juan as well as an unmistakeable appearance thanks to a striking yellow door that provides access to this relaxed bistro. The à la carte, with its strong focus on sharing, is surprising for its so-called “Bocados del Mundo” (Mouthfuls of the World, we particularly enjoyed the brioche with a veal ragout, spiced butter and white truffle), which are complemented by a section entitled “Algo más Serio” (Something More Serious) and desserts under the heading “Un buen recuerdo” (A Happy Memory). A tasting menu (Amelia) is also an option here.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Regional Cuisine. This cosy restaurant with a Nordic feel is run by two chefs (Kiko in the kitchen and Elisabet in charge of front of house) who also happen to be a couple. Their fresh, regional cuisine features interesting contemporary and international touches and a close bond with the ingredients of each season – they like nothing better than heading out into the countryside to forage for herbs and mushrooms! The à la carte, which always includes a selection of rice dishes, including the traditional Catalan “rossejat”, and “gazpacho” (a La Mancha option in which the gazpacho is prepared as a rice dish), is complemented by a daily menu and another more gastronomic tasting menu.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. This village in the heart of the Serranía de Ronda could be described as the archetypal picture-postcard “pueblo blanco” given its setting nestling between mountains and its swathe of whitewashed houses. Run by a Dutch couple (Hellen Blott and Barry Smit, the latter in the kitchen), the restaurant is a vision of perfection with its rustic ambience providing a backdrop for international cuisine that has taken a much more traditional twist (such as in the smoked ajoblanco with Payoyo cheese, olives and anchovies), but always based around the very best local and seasonal products (chestnuts, cherries, wild mushrooms, goat’s cheese, figs etc) and a focus on wines from the local area. The terrace boasts stunning views of the valley.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Having worked in various prestigious restaurants such as Nacho Manzano’s legendary Casa Marcial, chefs Carlos Griffo and Miguel Ángel García do their utmost to combine the skills they have learnt to create “comida de casa” – traditional home cooking based around seasonal ingredients, albeit in an updated format, but one that still respects their full flavours. The interior, which is now more elegant and features an open kitchen, provides the backdrop for an à la carte (including dishes such as hake tortilla with pil-pil and chilli peppers, shoulder of rabbit escabeche, rice with pigeon, etc) and a tasting menu. You’ll also find frequent daily suggestions, featuring fish sourced direct from the auction, plus some half-plate options.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Farm to table. Situated along the pleasant avenue skirting a bend in the Guadalquivir river between the Roman and Miraflores bridges, this restaurant boasts a youthful ambience and a rustic-contemporary decor that definitely made an impression on us (the bed of aromatic flowers in the middle of the dining room is a particularly attractive feature). The cuisine here is equally modern and very much market influenced, and includes dishes ranging from the traditional (mazamorra, salmorejo, oxtail etc) to more globally and fusion-inspired options (such as wild sea bass ceviche with apple, cucumber foam and marinated carrot gazpacho). Fine textures, distinctive flavours and impeccable presentation are all to the fore here.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine. An unmissable address in the island’s capital, this restaurant is located just a few steps from the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África market (also known as La Recova) and is often full thanks to its popularity with tourists as well as a loyal local clientele. In the contemporary ambience of its pleasant, intimate interior, enjoy an updated take on traditional cuisine presented via the à la carte and a menu entitled Caminar. Quality ingredients are key here, contributing to fun, copious and meticulously presented dishes that showcase the essence of Canarian cuisine, with an added nod to the cooking of Cantabria (chef Alberto González hails from Santander) and countries around Latin America. An impressive choice of market-inspired daily specials are also available.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. A restaurant that comes as a pleasant surprise thanks to the quality of its cuisine and its setting in an attractive, wooden chalet-style property surrounded by trees and greenery next to the campus of the Carlos III university. In the bright dining room you can savour its traditional market cuisine with a contemporary touch and a nod to the cuisine of other countries around the world, with the open grill at the heart of most dishes on the menu (an interesting tasting menu is also available). Savoury dishes that we particularly enjoyed included the popular grilled Hass avocado, and the Santé steak tartare (prepared at your table). Why not finish off your meal with the creamy and completely deconstructed cheesecake.

Bib Gourmand • Creative, Traditional Cuisine. It is located in uptown Barcelona and its name is anything but trivial, because when translated into English (seasoning, ripeness, moment) it highlights ‘the point or maturity of things’. Juanen Benavent, the Valencian-born chef at the helm of the restaurant, puts his stamp on seasonal local produce to offer an up-to-date, creative cuisine with notable French influences, something that is all the more understandable after learning that he spent four years working at the Goust restaurant in Paris. What will you find? Three set menus (Llavor, Germinat and Arrels) and finger-licking dishes, such as his stunning savoury Crema Catalana, with aubergine at the base and caramelised foie gras topping.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Mojo is a traditional Canary Island sauce that can be used in various ways and chef Braulio Simancas is a specialist when it comes to using this iconic salsa to bring enhanced flavour to some of his dishes. Named after the whistling language once used on the island of La Gomera, this unpretentious restaurant located next to a shopping centre that is close to the Pabellón de Deportes de Tenerife Santiago Martín sports complex showcases cuisine with its roots in the Canary Islands, albeit with a modern, light and delicate touch and impeccable technique. The unique cheeses on the menu are personally matured by the chef. Standout dishes include meat cooked in a traditional marinade, the “escaldón” of fish and Gomeran gofio, and, for dessert, the “frangollo” with raisin jam and sweet wine.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. This unique, intimate restaurant, with an interior design that combines industrial and contemporary details as well as classic decorative features from the past, is located in the authentic Chamberí district of the city. Its unusual name refers to a Roman archaeological site in La Bienvenida (Ciudad Real province). The chef at the helm here, Alejandro Aguirre, champions contemporary cuisine that is highly personal and full of strong flavours, ably supported by Asian and South American ingredients that he skilfully combines with native Spanish products. The à la carte, which includes appetising dishes such as steak tartare with grilled marrow bone, is complemented by a tasting menu (El Encuentro).

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Sisè is situated in the district of Cappont, a residential area to the south of the city, where it is run in a very informal manner by Àngel Esteve, a young Lleida-born chef who has returned to his roots to open his own business (the name is his own small homage to his grandparents) having worked away in a number of leading restaurants. His cuisine, the main inspiration for which derives from the open grill, is showcased on an updated take on traditional cuisine, to which he adds interesting smoke-influenced touches (a superb example is the grilled cod with celery). The kitchen opens onto the dining room and features a counter perfect for watching the preparation of each dish.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Contemporary. The name of this restaurant, which can be translated as “dreamers”, showcases the personality of chef David Andrés and his brother Xavier who are behind the transformation of an old tanning factory next to the Museu de la Pell (Leather Museum) in Igualada. In this industrial-style setting of stone walls, open brickwork, designer furniture and striking leather decoration hanging from the ceiling (a nod to the history of the building), enjoy modern and fun cuisine with its roots in traditional cooking, including the option of a concise à la carte and a well-priced weekday lunchtime menu (which changes every week). Seven meticulous guestrooms are available upstairs should you wish to stay the night.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Galician. The cooking at this taberna is fun as well as delicious! And with this in mind, the duo of owner-chefs Iria Espinosa and Luis Veira have strived for what they describe as the offbeat face of gourmet cuisine. This bright space occupying the former café adjoining the Arbore da Veira restaurant reflects the more informal and casual dining option of this award-winning name, which features an à la carte of appetisers and main dishes suitable for all budgets (it also includes a section entitled “landscapes for sharing”), in addition to an affordable tasting menu that showcases several signature dishes (spherical olives, carpaccio of scallops “al ajillo” with black garlic, etc). The impressive views over A Coruña add further appeal!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Andalusian. Located in the Arruzafilla district, close to its previous incarnation, this restaurant boasts a bright dining room from where the kitchen is partially visible to diners. The chef, who serves some of his dishes in person, conjures up cuisine that is contemporary in feel and showcases local products with the minimum of fuss, focusing on the best products from the Córdoba region and in particular its small producers. The cuisine here features a two interesting tasting menus, named Flos and Cibarium respectively, in reference to olives and their historical importance. The unique lamps hanging above the tables look like giant wasps’ nests!

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Having trained in a string of prestigious restaurants (El Celler de Can Roca, Akelaŕe, Nerua and El Ermitaño), chef Roberto Terradillos has returned to his roots to showcase his new talents, combining the latest techniques with the culinary flavours of his home province. The interior is functional and contemporary in feel, while the cooking follows contemporary trends albeit with a good basis in tradition and a nod to his native region. The à la carte is complemented by several interesting fixed menus: “De Mercado”, available lunchtimes midweek, and three others with a wine pairing option (Gastronómico, Clásico and a more gastronomic option called Bellas y Desconocidas, conceived as a tribute to 16th-century cuisine and women of Palencia).

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. A third-generation, family-run restaurant that has always shone a light on the gastronomic traditions of Almería, a fact highlighted and recognised by a statue of its founder Antonio Carmona Gallardo, on one side of the street. Occupying the hotel of the same name, it features a pleasant bar with a food display counter, a regionally inspired dining room, plus an attractive terrace. The extensive, traditionally focused à la carte features dishes from the region, grilled meats, fresh fish and seafood, daily specials, along with an appetising set menu. Unpretentious yet meticulously prepared cuisine based around top-quality ingredients.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. A restaurant with a modern feel that everyone is talking about given its aim of creating elaborate yet more informal cuisine based around lighter dishes that still retain incredible flavour. The couple that run it (chef Quique Vázquez mans the stoves while Ana Señarís takes care of everything front of house) like to describe what they offer as “casual” to make their guests feel very much at home, with a focus on delicate sauces, an interesting fusion of raw ingredients (marinated and smoked), plus an extensive array of rice dishes. Half-“raciones” are also an option on the menu here.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, International. Through the name of this restaurant, located along an attractive, narrow pedestrian street in the old quarter of town, the aim is to pay homage to a traditional form of fishing that, through the generations, has been fundamental to the livelihood of owner-chef Antonio Novas’ family. It boasts a bar at the entrance that is reminiscent of an old Galician tavern, a welcoming stone-walled dining room on the first floor, plus a private space for small events above it. Here, the cuisine is centred around top-quality ingredients and touches of contemporary and international influence, including daily recommendations that never fail to impress. Standout dishes include the signature croquettes (including those prepared with cuttlefish in ink), fish of the day and, for dessert, the creamy baked cheesecake with seasonal fruit jam.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. This restaurant in the heart of the city’s Goya district is the next step in the career of chef Álex Marugán, whose previous, somewhat more modest experience was in the nearby Mercado Torrijos. In this contemporary bistro-style eatery, he concentrates on contemporary cooking that incorporates an array of Latin American touches (especially from Mexico and Peru) to add distinct flavour to his dishes, which are interesting and highly delicate. The à la carte comes in two parts: “Los de siempre”, featuring his iconic recipes such as “Torrezno” (a fried bacon snack) and the “ossobuco pibil taco”; and “Los de hoy”, on which the options are influenced by seasonal ingredients.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine. A contemporary-style restaurant with modern touches which stands out for its cuisine, which is based on market-fresh produce and wild game, in particular. Although the chef is not a hunter himself, he pays careful attention to the hunting seasons and works around these in his choice of products. The restaurant boasts an attractive bar that surrounds the open-view kitchen, where guests can watch the chefs at work, plus an attractively appointed dining room. Culinary options here are showcased on a tempting à la carte with a choice of medias raciones, and a tasting menu.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. Enjoy informal haute-cuisine in this French bistro-style eatery in the traditional La Latina district of the city. Trèsde is run with great enthusiasm and passion by three life-long friends (in charge of the kitchen, dining room and back office, respectively). The market-inspired menu, which favours vegetables grown in traditional “navazo” gardens found in coastal marshland areas, has revitalised the starter/main course/dessert concept, with a choice of dishes from a concise yet meticulously prepared list. An additional bonus is the surprising three-glass pairing featuring sherry, sake and minimal-intervention wines.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Located in the city’s historic Benalúa district, Tábula Rasa boasts a well-maintained façade plus an interior with a tranquil and traditional ambience. Head Chef Rafael Molina is keen to offer honest cuisine that showcases Alicante’s culinary traditions, bringing a modern technical approach and a continual focus on fresh seasonal ingredients (they do not use freezers or vacuum packs). The menu, which changes almost daily, focuses on a single, tempting seasonal menu where rice dishes or 'fideuás', such as their tasty rice with pork ribs and vegetables, tend to take centre stage.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. María José and Pedro, supported by their enthusiastic team, are the “tandem” behind this small yet welcoming restaurant located close to the city’s bullring. Here, the menu is steered towards simple yet well-executed Mediterranean cooking supported by top-quality ingredients. Dishes come in half portions, are very much designed for sharing, and are showcased on an à la carte that is always “alive” and changes with the seasons – a theme highlighted in its title: “today’s menu, who knows about tomorrow”! Dishes that particularly piqued our curiosity included the delicious anchovies with butter and fig jam, served on a plate held by the figurine of a woman. It’s not a bad idea to eat at the bar to experience every stage of the cooking process.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Situated in a family-run hotel (Urbisol) that stands out for its natural surroundings and the extraordinary hospitality of the entire team, with Carles Badia in the kitchen, along with his son Oriol, and Elisabet Jubany (sister of award-winning chef Nandu Jubany) overseeing the dining room. The restaurant, located next to the reception area and with a contemporary atmosphere, offers updated traditional cuisine that aims to stimulate the palate. The menu, with dishes such as mushroom risotto with parmesan and foie gras, fried eggs with vegetables, Iberian ham and truffle oil, and monkfish and prawn suquet, is complemented by a very full tasting menu (only available upon request). The vegetables are surprisingly intense in flavour!

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. Although the word “Vapor” (the Spanish for “steam”) automatically brings to mind the world of gastronomy, here, in a lively pedestrianised street in Terrassa’s old quarter, it is also used to pay tribute to the unusual industrial revolution that took place in Terrassa in the 19C, where steal transformed its textile industry and led to the town’s reputation as “the town of steam engines”. Behind the façade, you’ll find a pleasant brasserie-style eatery with an open-view kitchen, where the regionally inspired à la carte always champions locally produced and “zero-miles” ingredients. Make sure you enquire about the daily specials.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. This restaurant in the elegant Salamanca district of the city is run by two young chefs, Jorge Velasco and Joaquín Serrano, and is usually full every day. It offers two highly distinct dining concepts: the informal Varra Fina on the ground floor, more focused on tapas, and the gourmet restaurant called Varra, found upstairs with tables adorned with tablecloths. Both proposals have been merged into one, offering visitors the best of both worlds: Joselito ham croquettes, freshly made Russian salad, lightly fried line-caught hake with green sauce, 40-day matured picanha steak tartare. The dishes evolve over the course of the year, highlighting the importance this restaurant places on seasonal produce!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. If you happen to be travelling along the Costa da Morte and are looking for a good place to eat, it is well worth booking a table at Villa de Oro, a third-generation restaurant that has already celebrated its golden wedding anniversary! Located in the centre of Camariñas, on the ground floor of a residential building, it boasts a recently modernised dining room, a small glass-fronted wine cellar and a live seafood tank. The traditional, regionally inspired à la carte menu is, as you would expect in this part of the world, heavily focused on fish and seafood, although a choice of meat dishes is also available. The house speciality is rice with lobster!

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. A family-run restaurant with rooms available for those guests keen to explore the beautiful La Vera region. It is run by two siblings, Pilar and Víctor, who have taken over the reins here with both enthusiasm and dedication. They offer an à la carte service with daily recommendations (such as black pudding fritters with green chilli foam or aubergine with miso) and two tasting menus (7 or 12 courses). These feature Iberian meats, suckling pig, young local goat, and the famous Grandma Fidela’s 'migas', renowned throughout the local area. Another detail? Víctor is also a lover of rum, hence the choice of over 150 different varieties.

Bib Gourmand • French. Set off the busy Sveavägen thoroughfare, this brasserie provides a hidden oasis. Sit on the attractive front terrace or in the chic dining room, where seats at the kitchen counter are in demand. Variously sized dishes are richly flavoured, with a French base, Scandinavian influences and subtle contrasts.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. The very definition of a neighbourhood restaurant, Babette is a lively, bustling spot with a buzzing atmosphere; arrive expecting to squeeze past chairs without stepping on dogs and to sit elbow-to-elbow with your fellow guests. The vibe is chilled, the music is good and the two chefs work away in the tiny kitchen completely unphased. Whether you’re popping in for a glass of wine and the pizza of the day or spending the evening over some ever-evolving small plates – such as ricotta Babette with mushrooms and potatoes or veal tartare with colatura and parmesan – you’ll have a great time.

Bib Gourmand • Swedish, Small eats. This lively wine bar is a perfect fit for the neighbourhood. Sit at closely set tables or on high stools either up at the bar counter or next to the window, surrounded by paintings and hunting trophies, including some impressive antlers and a huge wild boar’s head. Order your way through the menu of small plates, which highlight Swedish ingredients and flavours, and feature the likes of cheese balls with garlic honey or pork neck skewer with oyster sauce and chives. Three stainless steel tanks contain home-distilled gin – flavours change regularly, courtesy of various herbs, oils and fruits.

Bib Gourmand • Scandinavian, Swedish. This lively, friendly eatery is divided into three parts: a bar with bench seating and an open kitchen; a bright red room with a characterful cellar and a glass wine cave; and a superb wrap-around terrace. The good value cooking is rich and hearty, with a touch of originality here and there. A relaxed atmosphere and an appealing wine, beer and cocktail list add to the experience.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. You will find this bistro at the southern tip of Sweden, in the centre of a small town with picturesque streets that provided the setting for the Wallander detective TV series. The good value menu offers a wide choice of dishes, with vegetarians and vegans well catered for. Scandinavian produce powers many of the modern dishes, which are prepared and presented with real care.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. With its pared-back feel, rustic exposed brickwork and buzzy vibe, this is just the place for a lively night out. It remains one of the hottest tickets in town, so try for a counter seat overlooking the kitchen if you haven’t booked. The concise menu includes modernised Swedish classics that are robust, well-composed and certainly deliver on flavour. Service is accommodating, warm and efficient.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Set within the Grand Hotel, this trendy, modern bistro offers well-priced dishes with a Scandinavian heart; three are about right for one person, or order more and share. Grab a seat at the zinc-topped bar counter for a better view of the open kitchen; the keen service team add to the atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. This laid-back, semi-industrial style restaurant comes with exposed brick walls, polished concrete floors, silver ducting and large windows that let in plenty of light. The kitchen counter bends round to become the bar – you can eat here or at the surrounding black tables – and the good value menu offers plenty of options in the form of small plates, allowing you build your meal however you please. Local flavours lead the way, but come with international accents, from oyster with tiger milk, coriander, Swedish vinegar and sweetcorn cream to beef tartare with green tomato, baked yolk and horseradish.

Bib Gourmand • Korean. Restaurateur and Swedish MasterChef winner Jennie Walldén is behind this fun, energetic restaurant that blends Nordic ingredients with Jennie's South Korean heritage. Offering great value for money, the cooking is colourful, zingy and generous in both size and flavour; the signature flank steak served with an array of accompaniments is a highlight. Dishes are designed for sharing, with tasting menus available if you're feeling indecisive. Head next door to their Gaji cocktail bar to keep the party going.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. The open kitchen takes centre stage at this buzzy all-day café/bakery/deli, which has been wholeheartedly embraced by the locals. Lunchtime snacks and salads make room for generously sized, boldly flavoured Mediterranean dishes at dinner. Most of the wines on the concise list are available on-tap.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine. Charming in its lack of pretension, this bohemian neighbourhood restaurant has a homely feel. It’s simply furnished and the pared-back cooking has an unfussiness to match. Dishes show technical skill and provide some well-judged flavours using great Swedish ingredients. In an expensive city, the set menu presents good value for cooking of this quality.

Bib Gourmand • Swedish. Owned and run by a friendly couple – Olle, who cooks, and Sophie, who looks after the service – this unpretentious city centre bistro has certainly stood the test of time, with 2025 marking its 20th year. This is thanks, in part, to the flavour-packed dishes, where good quality regional ingredients are brought together in harmonious, visually appealing combinations. The four-course set menu changes with the seasons, featuring the likes of cod with blue mussels, beach rose and pink peppercorn, followed by grapefruit with ginger and black lime – wine and juice flights are available to accompany.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Swedish. The residents of Östermalm can count themselves lucky to call this charming restaurant run by a husband-and-wide duo their local – but whether you’re a regular or not, you’ll instantly feel the warmth of the team’s hospitality. The fully open-plan layout adds a unique touch, as it blurs the line between dining room and kitchen, where Lotta prepares unfussy, flavour-packed dishes such as blue mussels with onion, jalapeno and bergamot or ling with browned butter, hazelnuts and Brussels sprouts. Great value is to be found on the ‘Kvällens Fyra Favoriter’ menu, a four-course ‘Favourites of the Night’.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, International. Diners will feel right at home in this charming and inviting restaurant. Set in a former bell foundry, the atmosphere is welcoming and delightfully down to earth. The blend of rustic and modern styles is interesting, and the art on the walls is sure to draw the eye. You can look forward to very friendly and attentive service, as well as pared-down and exceedingly flavourful dishes prepared by owner Nik Buchs. Popular choices here include true classics such as entrecôte or veal cutlet. The extensive wine list also includes organic and biodynamic wines. In summer, the terrace is a wonderful place.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Traditional Cuisine. The name of the game here is "Gasthaus at its best" – this applies to the cosy space, the cordial, attentive service, and chef Daniel Jann's cuisine. Whether you opt for Murmeltierpfeffer (marmot stew), Gitzi-Bratwurst (a goat meat and beef sausage) or asparagus dishes, meticulous craftsmanship and flavour are guaranteed. The focus lies squarely on the region. Eating here is fun! Stylish guestrooms are available for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Classic Cuisine. Located in relaxing Brissago, this historic bistro features a pleasantly retro ambience and well-maintained wood furnishings. The courteous service is accompanied by the delicious flavours of dishes that follow the seasons and include traditional and Mediterranean touches. The ravioli del plin stuffed with braised wild boar are a highlight.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, International. The journey up to this enchanting mountain village is something of an adventure, but the food makes it worth it! In a rustic chalet-style setting, diners tuck into flavoursome regional dishes prepared with seasonal produce – the chef is always happy to showcase Swiss ingredients. The menu features mouthwatering options such as "Mario's Signature Black Forest" (beef sirloin, sour cherries, cocoa, kirsch 40% volume) and the "Alpen Tapas" starter. Friendly and charming front-of-house team.

Bib Gourmand • Sicilian, Classic Cuisine. Although all the staff at this beautiful historic restaurant on the village square hail from Sicily, they have been working in Switzerland for years. Here, authentic Sicilian cuisine is served in a rustic and welcoming setting that also provides the backdrop for regular music events: the only concessions to Ticino are the polenta-based dishes. Our inspector particularly recommends the sarde in “Beccafico”(stuffed sardine roulade with breadcrumbs, sultanas, pine nuts and orange peel). There’s also a pleasantly cool and tranquil outdoor space for summer dining, plus four attractive and inviting guestrooms on the top floor.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Run by the Anderhalden family, this remotely located establishment is a delightful spot. Dine in the restaurant-cum-parlour – the lounge area with its fireplace is ideal for an aperitif – or the cosy Stübli with its beautiful wooden floor and elegant table settings. The chef-patron serves up flavoursome Swiss cuisine, drawing on fresh seasonal produce and international influences. The menu ranges from beef fillet stroganoff to Mediterranean-inspired pasta dishes and Indian lamb curry. Service comes courtesy of the attentive proprietress, who is always on hand.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Regional Cuisine. This hotel's bistro may be cheaper than its upscale restaurant, Stuba, but the food is nonetheless tasty and fresh. Whether you come for lunch or dinner, the no-frills market-inspired cooking won't break the bank. They are keen to use produce from the region, in dishes such as "Hüttler's hamburger" or house speciality "Dad's steak tartare". Another of their classics is the spicy Thai red curry, which has just the right amount of heat! In keeping with the Alpenblick style, the atmosphere is nice and relaxed, and the service charming and attentive. In summer, the covered terrace in front of the entrance is inviting. The wine list is the same as at Stuba.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Swiss. This bistro, part of Alpenblick hotel (some 500m above sea level), makes for a pleasant dining alternative to Gourmetstübli. The space is cosy, and the food is excellent. On the menu: delicious regional and seasonal dishes, as well as classics such as Simmentaler Kalbfleisch-Geschnetzeltes (slices of Simmental veal in a creamy sauce) and cheese fondue. And be sure to try the rösti! On Tuesday evenings the restaurant hosts a meat fondue buffet.

Bib Gourmand • International, Traditional Cuisine. In this first-floor restaurant, wood panelling and low ceilings create a snug and welcoming atmosphere, perfectly matched by seasonal cuisine made with fresh produce and brimming with flavour. The menu is sure to whet the appetite, with options such as veal liver with onions, sage und rösti, vegetarian loaf with mashed potatoes, carrots and creamy mushroom sauce, and the classic Chateaubriand (for two or more diners). The meat comes from the restaurant's own butchery. For overnight stays, there are well-appointed, modern guestrooms. Convenient: The tram to St Gallen stops right nearby.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, Sushi. After climbing just over ten steps, you settle comfortably into this delightful restaurant with relaxing colors and a splendid view of the lake and mountains. Of course, when the weather is nice, the terrace is the best place to book: your gaze drifts off over the vast blue expanse, while bamboo plants brighten up the outdoor area. The kitchen offers all the great Asian classics: traditional or fusion sushi, sashimi, delicious Thai curries, dim sum, and much more. Choosing won’t be easy!

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine. In a romantic chalet deep in the countryside, this dinky restaurant has no more than six tables spread over two levels in several cosy dining rooms. In winter, a log burning fire greets you, instantly setting the rustic yet welcoming tone; a small terrace is greatly appreciated come summertime. At the helm are Adrien Lopez (chef) and Clara Laurent (front of house), whose ethos is good, wholesome food made from scratch. Adrien crafts fresh, flavoursome dishes from primarily local ingredients, while Clara graciously pampers diners. You will choose between a tasting menu or a concise à la carte lineup, both of which are great value for money. Regional tipples take pride of place on the wine list. Bookings recommended if you want to be sure of a table.

Bib Gourmand • Classic French, Traditional Cuisine. This place exudes brasserie appeal thanks to its charming, stylish atmosphere and unfussy, honest seasonal menu, which also includes classic dishes. Despite its proximity to the centre, the location is pleasantly quiet – outside, an attractive terrace with shady trees beckons. There are well-kept guestrooms for overnight stays. Tip: Take the opportunity to visit Basel Historical Museum opposite.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary. This somewhat inconspicuous Auberge is located in a small village set slightly above Vevey and the iconic Lake Geneva. Run by the Konrad family, the bustling restaurant, appointed in a low-key, modern vein and boasting a pretty terrace, offers a choice between sensibly priced flavoursome bistro classics and a gourmet menu. The fresh ingredients are seasonal and for the most part regional (vol-au-vent stuffed with calf’s sweetbread and Vevey pleurote mushrooms, lemon and cauliflower). However, the chef also finds inspiration in more international recipes, like 12hr-braised, Burgundy-style beef cheeks with velvety mashed potato or Chamby trout flanked by winter veggies rich in Asian aromas and coriander-laced rice noodles. Remember to book, they are often packed to the seams. Pleasant rooms for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • French Contemporary. Stuffed breast of guinea fowl, cabbage braised in butter and wild mushroom sauce; 65% Maracaibo chocolate fingers, poached pear and caramel crumble: the Burgundian chef and MOF Fabien Pairon definitely knows his stuff. He regularly and savvily renews his menus which favour fresh, local, premium produce. An example: Malakoffs d’or (fried cheese balls), salad and veggie pickles. Jennifer, the chef’s partner, graciously and wholeheartedly supervises the seamless front of house operations, and is largely responsible for the friendly, home-from-home vibe. Ticks all the boxes – and at eater-friendly prices too!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. Claudia and Olivier Hiernard have combined bistro and restaurant at their charming inn. The delicious bistro fare on the blackboard is now complemented by a market-inspired "Menu du Marché", meaning flavoursome dishes are now served in both parts of the establishment. Just don't forget to leave room for dessert! On Friday and Saturday evenings, only a small selection is available.

Bib Gourmand • Meats and Grills. This restaurant with its charming brasserie atmosphere is located in what was once the "butcher's quarter" – and in keeping with its history, the meat theme has been taken up here. Besides design features such as lamps and wall tiles, the open kitchen really draws the eye. They rear their own meat or source it from Swiss producers. Vegetarian alternatives are also available.

Bib Gourmand • French, Seasonal Cuisine. You'll feel right at home here and that is down to the pleasant atmosphere, friendly service and excellent, fresh cuisine cooked up by Werner Tobler. The set menu, "La Table chez Bacchus", comprises four to six courses; the small à la carte selection includes dishes such as roasted pike-perch with pine nuts, ratatouille and white tomato butter. At lunchtime, there is also the option of a two- to four-course set menu. The setting is tasteful and upscale, with decorative touches in the form of bookshelves and a large mural; floor-to-ceiling windows allow plenty of light to flood in. Tip: You can buy cheese, spices, cakes, wines and more in the shop.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Classic French. The charmingly laid-back second restaurant of the Hotel Balm maintains the same culinary ambition as the first. Expect expertly crafted, flavoursome regional dishes rooted in classic French cuisine, such as a delicate creamy fennel soup or succulent braised veal breast with vegetables and celeriac-potato mash. Diners can choose between à la carte options and a set menu. Friendly and adept service. Lovely terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Fusion. Eat, drink, celebrate, be merry, meet friends… the Kreis 4 district is to Zurich what the Barranco district is to Lima. Nestled among a host of other restaurants and bars, the Peruvian neighbourhood's namesake serves modern cuisine that is bursting with flavour, zing and spices – a fusion of Latin American, Asian and Mediterranean influences. The dishes are ideal for sharing so you can try several. The laid-back, attentive service contributes to the pleasingly unpretentious atmosphere in this inviting space with a trendy decor featuring Peruvian murals. Nice selection of cocktails. The terrace in front of the building is shielded from the pavement by plants.

Bib Gourmand • Modern French, Sharing. This gem of a restaurant is somewhat tucked away in a narrow alley in the city centre. In a historical dining room with a cosy, rustic atmosphere, diners are served modern cuisine rooted in French culinary tradition. The concept is designed with sharing in mind. The "Tavolata" stands out: a three- to five-course surprise menu to be enjoyed in company. Alternatively, there are à la carte options such as hand-cut beef tartare with brioche, or pan-seared scallops with Jerusalem artichoke, beurre blanc and hazelnut. Special mention should be made of the expertly curated wine list, especially the "Unicorn" and "Sommelier Choice" sections. The menu is more concise at lunchtime.

Bib Gourmand • International, Asian. At this restaurant in the chic Alpine CERVO Mountain Resort, located at the end of a ski slope, you are whisked away to an exotic and predominantly vegetarian world of flavours, ranging from Arab to Chinese specialities, from baba ganoush (smoked eggplant, tahini, pomegranate and garlic) to the Indian dal makhani (black lentils, sweet potatoes, mustard tarak and chapati) and dim sum such as "Phoenix Eye" (tofu, glass noodles, black mushrooms and wombok) or Tibetan tse tang churo momos, and sweet mezze for dessert. The atmosphere is nice and laid back. From the conservatory you can look out over Zermatt and the Matterhorn. The open kitchen is another focal point, as are the distinctive decorative items, almost all of which are available for purchase – just like at a bazaar!

Bib Gourmand • Creative, Modern Cuisine. If you love sharing plates, this place is made for you! At both lunch and dinner, chef Christian Vogel presents his "Sharing is Love" concept – an engaging dining experience set in a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere, where great food and lively conversation go hand in hand. The cuisine is plant-forward but can be complemented by top-quality fish or meat. Choose dishes à la carte, such as "Caesar-style lettuce salad" with wild garlic, Sbrinz AOP and beetroot, or celery tarte Tatin with apple, walnut and celery, or opt for the surprise sharing menu for two. As an alternative to the wine pairings, the thoughtfully composed mocktails are well worth trying. A dedicated children's menu makes this a wonderfully family-friendly option. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Alps, the location enjoys sweeping views over Lake Lucerne. Tip: In the centre of the restaurant, The Nest operates as a food bar in the evenings – an excellent alternative.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Swiss. Whether you hike up or take the mountain railway (ideal from Vitznau), it's well worth stopping off here. The location is idyllic – at 1 550m above sea level, the terrace is wonderful – and the "natural cuisine" is another big attraction! Many of the ingredients are drawn from the immediate surroundings or harvested from the restaurant's own garden. The menu features smaller plates and regular dishes such as "terroir burger", ragout or medium-rare cuts of Rigi organic beef. Vegetarian options include organic potato gnocchi or "Alpine omelette". Friendly and well-informed staff talk you through the individual ingredients. And as an apéritif, why not try an alcohol-free"Chrüterwässer" made with garden herb extracts and cherry juice? Both the Bistro, for lunch, and fine dining restaurant, Regina Montium, for dinner, are housed in Kräuterhotel Edelweiss, where you can stay overnight after your meal.

Bib Gourmand • Classic French. In the restaurant of this hotel dating from 1750, the team conjures up a cavalcade of delicate, expertly crafted Gallic dishes, made with seasonal produce. Examples: artichoke, smoked whitefish from the nearby lake and buckwheat, or pan-fried calf’s sweetbread, morels and asparagus. The well-curated wine list is definitely worth a gander. The cheerful front-of-house team enjoys explaining the finer points of each dish. The interior sports small bistro tables, there is a peaceful terrace to the rear that is heavenly in fine weather and a casual, affable spirit reigns throughout.

Bib Gourmand • French. This buzzy bistro located in the Champel neighbourhood is often fully booked. The interior is done out simply and tastefully – it is the Art Nouveau stained-glass ceiling panels, as well as the columns, that draw the eye. Their classic take on traditional French cuisine is flavoursome and aromatic, plus everything is made in-house. The service is efficient and attentive.

Bib Gourmand • Swiss, Farm to table. This charming restaurant serves regional cuisine prepared with high-quality ingredients – the chef has a particular passion for risotto. Offal dishes, such as tripe or liver, are also available. The Gourmet Galgenspiess flambiert (flambéed hanging skewer) and the Chateaubriand have to be ordered in advance and are served to the whole table. The rustic downstairs space makes for a cosy setting; the upstairs room is a little more elegant. With her friendly, outgoing manner, the proprietress brings a personal touch to the service. The peaceful rural location, about 25km from Zurich, is a draw in itself.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. Both the restaurant, and the Hôtel des Horlogers in which it is housed, are the epitome of sleek, cutting-edge cool. In addition to an elegant designer interior, guests can savour panoramic vistas of nature through huge picture windows. The seasonal lineup harmoniously blends classical and traditional flavours (succulent stocks and addictive sauces) and is crafted from primarily regional ingredients. An uncluttered decor provides the perfect foil to bold, modern plating and high-quality recipes. If you are dining in a party, don’t hesitate to order the dishes to share, but before that, it would be a crime to skip the delectable gruyere-flavoured malakoffs (fried cheese balls) – ideal with an aperitif. The entire team, from the slick front-of-house staff to the crack white-jacketed brigade, is polished and professional. The hotel offers top-of-the-line guestrooms in the same vein that enjoy a view over the forest of Risoud.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Regional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. At this rather grand establishment with two dining spaces, GastStube and GnussStube, delicious regional and seasonal food is served, including vegetarian options. You can dine à la carte or opt for a set menu; the "MundArt-Gourmetmenü" has to be ordered in advance. At lunchtime, a shorter à la carte selection, set menus and other daily specials are available. Another highlight: barbecued specialities from the Big Green Egg. Ingredients are sourced as locally as possible. There is a decent wine list with a focus on Swiss labels. The waitstaff are friendly, attentive and professional.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Classic Cuisine. The 14th generation of the same family is at the helm of this gorgeous traditional Bernese inn – it was first documented in 1261. Whether you eat in the pretty, inviting dining area or the lovely garden, you will be treated to friendly service and delicious food with a traditional regional character. One speciality of the house is the Solothurner Wy-Süppli (wine soup). The chef will be happy to explain the origins of their rather special "Bärechöpfli" dessert. Slightly reduced menu at lunchtime. There are also stylish salons.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Classic Cuisine. This restaurant serves classic, seasonal cuisine crafted with skill and packed with flavour. Highlights include braised veal breast with potato gratin, oxtail-stuffed gnocchi with black truffle and Parmesan wheel spaghetti. In the evening, diners can choose a three- to five-course menu or order à la carte; lunch is more streamlined with a more moderately priced set menu, along with à la carte options. The interior is cheerful and cosy, and service is attentive and professional. There is also an attractive hall for events.

Bib Gourmand • French, Traditional Cuisine. Located on an arm of the River Rhône, this popular, bustling eatery, decked out in a profusion of nostalgic paraphernalia, calls to mind a vintage picture postcard and also boasts a wisteria-covered terrace. Fine ingredients are consummately and delicately crafted into delicious dishes, examples of which are the flawlessly cooked Black Angus steak or raspberry tartlet with a refreshing raspberry sorbet.

Bib Gourmand • French, Farm to table. A sleepy village deep in the countryside is the venue of this pleasant guesthouse that extends a warm authentic welcome. Take a seat on the pretty terrace surrounded by meadows and breathe in the fresh air. You can expect regional seasonal fare, steeped in big-boned aromas and washed down with a fine selection of wines from the Geneva area.

Bib Gourmand • International. This pleasantly lively place is located right in the city centre. With high ceilings, dark wood panelling, exposed brickwork and large windows, the restaurant is really atmospheric. Swiss classics are served alongside international cuisine. A diverse range of vegetarian and vegan dishes is also available. The menu features options such as creamy Riesling soup with grapes and parmesan, tuna and Scottish salmon sashimi with ponzu sauce and wasabi mayonnaise, or veal liver with herbs, onions, port wine jus and buttery potato rösti. In addition to a terrific wine list, there is an interesting selection of digestifs.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Country cooking, Seasonal Cuisine. This restaurant enjoys a lovely, quiet location in the castle grounds. Inside the bright, high-ceilinged space, modern design meets warm wood; outside, there is a gorgeous terrace. Service is adept and delivered by a thoroughly charming team. They serve regional cuisine, in which seasonal ingredients sourced from select local producers go into extremely flavoursome dishes – the produce steals the show. Andreas Caminada's take on Graubünden classics also features on the menu, such as Maluns (fried potato crumbles) with apple compote and cheese, or Capuns Tatta (dough-filled chard leaf wraps). Tip: Pay a visit to the in-house bakery and the Concept Store next door to pick up some provisions for home.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Classic Cuisine. In this house with a long history, Linus and Therese Arpagaus serve up excellent cuisine made from fresh ingredients. The menu takes its cue from the region and includes Mediterranean influences. Expect classics such as capuns and pizochels, as well as offal specialities such as sweetbreads, veal liver and tripe. At lunchtime, there is also an inexpensive menu of the day. The interior is charming with its pretty traditional Stube, and the presence of many locals makes for a lively atmosphere. Expert service is overseen by the cordial lady of the house. The secluded garden terrace is a wonderful spot in summer! In addition to Ustria, there is Sala, where a "Gourmet Menu" is also served.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. Particularly well-known and frequented by locals, this restaurant with its delightful, rustic, family atmosphere offers delicious regional cuisine that can be enjoyed – weather permitting – on the lovely terrace as well. In summer, the menu is enriched with dishes made exclusively from vegetables and garden produce.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Farm to table. In this pleasantly laid-back restaurant overlooking the village, the Hausmann/Köhli husband-and-wife team propose a really fun dining experience! The chef-patron cooks up delectable dishes that are delightfully down-to-earth: drawing inspiration from the region, they are big on flavour, with options including, for example, leek and bacon ravioli with fresh morels, or pork steak with Meaux mustard, mashed potatoes and vegetables. Nicely curated wine list and highly attentive service courtesy of the lady of the house, whose natural charm shines through. Be sure to bag a table on the delightfully verdant garden terrace!

Bib Gourmand • Meats and Grills, International. Philippe Chevrier from the Domaine de Châteauvieux is the brains behind this huge restaurant inspired by New York-style steakhouses. Relaxed atmosphere, meats sourced from the renowned Boucherie du Molard, fish caught by small-scale fishermen, dishes cooked over a wood fire, a truly authentic cheesecake and an expansive wine list. A real favourite!

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Farm to table. With this brasserie, the Châeau Attisholz presents a chic alternative to its fine dining restaurant (Le feu). Contemporary design meets a period cross-vaulted ceiling and pillars made of 18C Solothurn stone to form a harmonious whole. The menu features fresh seasonal cuisine rooted in classic recipes, with a preference for regional produce. At lunchtime, the options are reduced to a two-course set menu, to which a dessert can be added. There are elegant spaces on the first floor for events. Comfortable overnight accommodation available.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Regional Cuisine. Just off the lobby of the tasteful and well-appointed Hotel Colani, Colani Bistrot is in some ways the little sibling of the fine dining restaurant. The food is excellent – Mediterranean cuisine with a local twist. We can certainly recommend the "Ravioli of the Day". Meat eaters should ask about the main dish centred on venison or veal – showcasing a different cut every day. The appealing range of desserts and cakes also deserves a mention. Friendly service, a laid-back atmosphere and modern interior design featuring pale wood and a whole host of decorative details. There is a charming little terrace in front of the building.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine, Modern Cuisine. This modern restaurant boasts a great location next to the historical town hall and has a charming terrace laid out in the garden. The seasonally inspired menu successfully brings together modern Italian and French cuisine, while keeping an open mind when it comes to international influences. Cordial and competent service. Tip: the competitively priced lunch menu.

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, Farm to table. This small restaurant in a side street in the old town has a charming, down-to-earth and almost intimate atmosphere. It also serves really good food, cooked up by chef-owner Jan Schmidlin from almost exclusively regional produce. Shining examples of his delicious modern seasonal fare that are not to be missed include the excellent local trout fillet served with wild broccoli, nuts, dill and beurre blanc. Alongside the four-course set menu, there is an à la carte selection of dishes, plus a good range of regional wines, which are also available by the glass. Extremely pleasant, cordial hospitality awaits you.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Vegan, Modern Cuisine. This charming sister restaurant of KLE has moved to a new location. As before, the cuisine is plant-based and shaped by the Spanish and Moroccan heritage of chef-patron Zineb ("Zizi") Hattab, who was born to Moroccan parents and grew up on the Costa Brava. Her modern take on the culinary styles of Spain and Morocco results in dishes that are brimming with personality. The plates are also ideal for sharing, making this the perfect place to spend a cosy evening with friends. Feel free to enjoy a drink before or after your meal; you can also drop in for a coffee or aperitif during the day. Brunch is served on Sat and Sun.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Classic Cuisine. A fun dining experience is guaranteed at this delightful restaurant with its inviting decor – the wine-glass chandeliers are certainly original! In the evening, there is a set menu comprising three, four or five courses, featuring dishes such as Appenzell mountain lamb and meat patties, served with green beans and chanterelles, thyme jus and Ribel polenta with mascarpone. There are also regular daily specials. Authentic Swiss cuisine based on craftsmanship, free from showmanship or trendy gimmicks – it resonates with locals and tourists alike. Well-curated wine list. In summer, the charming, spacious terrace beside the restaurant beckons. Each lunchtime brings a new selection of dishes to choose from.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese, Sushi. This welcoming, zen-inspired establishment with a panoramic terrace at the foot of the mountains invites you to sample authentic Japanese fare. In their open kitchen, the brigade painstakingly crafts iconic dishes, such as crispy gyoza, nigiri (fatty tuna, grilled eel, tamago) and perfectly crispy Katsu chicken. Some of the house specials require pre-ordering well ahead, like the Japanese fondue and fresh fish chirashi. The menu also features a lineup of classics among which miso soup or a Japanese rendering of a café gourmand with mochi and matcha-flavoured sweet titbits. The warm, friendly vibe, attentive front-of-house team and exemplary value for money make it an establishment not to be missed, be it to dine in or take away.

Bib Gourmand • International, Traditional Cuisine. There has been a restaurant here since 1870, and the current owners, the dedicated Meier family, have retained the restaurant's traditional feel while also introducing contemporary influences. This is reflected in the flavoursome cuisine, which keeps many regulars coming back. Diners can choose a fine dining set menu of three to five courses – for example, Swiss Alpine salmon from Lostallo with fregola sarda and champagne-saffron sauce – or order à la carte, from classics such as veal cordon bleu to Indian curry with paneer, vegetables and jasmine rice. A well-chosen wine list complements the food. You can dine in either the main restaurant or St Peterstube, with identical offerings in both. For a good-value lunch, the daily specials are an excellent choice.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Seasonal Cuisine. At this long-established restaurant, Alain Koenig serves up dishes that are pleasingly down-to-earth and packed with flavour. Fish takes centre stage, but there are also a few meat and vegetarian options. You can dine à la carte or opt for one of two set menus: "Complet" (four courses) and "Degustation" (three to six courses). The tasteful decor is classically elegant in style, the service attentive and friendly. Decent wine list. Tip: For private dining or celebrations, book the historical vaulted cellar.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Pizza. A charming and lively trattoria that, along with La Cucina Colaianni, forms the exciting Freilager dual concept in the Albisrieden neighbourhood. With Marco Però and his team providing warm and attentive service, Antonio Colaianni whips up flavoursome Italian classics in the kitchen – from vitello tonnato and paccheri con gamberoni to filetto di branzino and the "Tiramisu Freilager", which is prepared at your table. The good range of pizzas is also worth mentioning. At lunchtime, the options are more limited but include the wallet-friendly three-course "Menu D'Affari", as well as daily specials and items from the evening menu. In fine weather, you can eaton the terrace. Tip for motorists: the adjacent multi-storey car park (entrance at Flurstrasse 116).

Bib Gourmand • Asian Contemporary. This place with a name that can be translated as "foreigner bar" is a cool spot that channels the style of a Japanese izakaya (casual bars that serve drinks and food). A team led by chef-patron Daniel Shu, who trained in Chicago and New York, and his business partner cook up creative Asian soul food – in the form of an omakase menu or à la carte. The lunch menu is more limited. Modern music plays in the background, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Farm to table. With a history dating back to 1455, this lovely half-timbered house is really something special. In an inviting atmosphere, food is served in three charming rooms and on the idyllic terrace overlooking the Rhine. The menu features Swiss classics such as fillets of perch with tartare sauce or Kalbsgeschnetzeltes Zürcher Art – Zurich veal ragout with rösti, alongside seasonal dishes such as asparagus salad with herb vinaigrette, served with smoked trout and fresh horseradish. If you are looking for a good location for a wedding or event, the premises can also be rented out.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Traditional Cuisine. This restaurant is steeped in tradition, and much sought after for its excellent seasonal cuisine. The chef's expertise and his knack for preparing select ingredients with real flavour are evident in dishes such as spicy smoked trout tartare with dill mustard and marinated apple and beetroot salad, and braised veal cheek, Bramata polenta and green beans with dried bacon. At lunchtime, you can order à la carte or opt for one of four three-course set menus. In the evening, there is a tasting menu in addition to an à la carte selection. Attentive service comes courtesy of a friendly and well-organised front-of-house team. Goethe himself was a guest here – the pretty Goethe-Stübli is named after him – and the well-preserved painted panelling from the 17C adds rustic charm. The terrace is a delightful spot, secluded from the street by abundant greenery. Modern, functional guestrooms are available for overnight stays. Tip for motorists: public car park behind the building.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Swiss, Traditional Cuisine. This 500-year-old heritage-protected inn is run by Patricia and Cäsar Meyer, who represent the second generation of their family here. He has a penchant for fish caught in Lake Zurich, just a stone's throw away – you can't get any fresher or more regional than that! Meat and vegetables, too, are sourced from the immediate vicinity. Besides the whitefish and perch, the Stäfa venison is especially worth trying, such as the overnight-braised shoulder with Pinot Noir sauce. This commitment to regional ingredients underscores the kitchen's sustainable approach. Food is served on the first floor of the building, in cosy yet stylish dining rooms that exude historical charm. A wonderful terrace balcony affords stunning lake views. The staff are very attentive and cordial – you're sure to want to come back! Comfortable guestrooms.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese, Sichuan. The Asian restaurant at the Grischa hotel serves a combination of Chinese and Japanese dishes. Tip: Some dishes are designed for sharing. If you fancy the Peking duck for two, which is absolutely to be recommended, be sure to pre-order (at least 48hr in advance). You also have the option of taking your pick of many of the ingredients and having them put together as you wish. The sleek, authentic design of the restaurant is also appealing.

Bib Gourmand • International. Diners are assured of a pleasantly informal atmosphere and great food at this little inn run by Yvonne and Lars Dederscheck on the outskirts of Niederernen. Their dishes are inspired by modern culinary trends and made using the freshest select ingredients. Think lukewarm char, celeriac, apple and horseradish, or duck breast, pulled duck leg, Jerusalem artichoke and kale. A fine à la carte selection is available, along with a three- to seven-course set menu and a three- or four-course vegetarian set menu s. Valais wines are recommended as an accompaniment. The welcoming interior has a contemporary feel – as well as an attractive stone-clad counter, there are pleasing decorative touches including some lovely paintings that are also available to purchase. Last but not least, the inviting terrace overlooks the Rhone Valley.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. A rustic grotto-style restaurant with a warm and welcoming ambience, where staff are happy to advise you on the seasonal dishes on offer. A whole page of the menu is dedicated to classic favourites, all of which are influenced by Mediterranean cuisine – the veal shank with mashed potato and salted butter is particularly delicious. There’s also a small menu of daily specials which changes according to market availability. The terrace shaded by huge plane trees provides a pleasant setting for summer dining, while an excellent wine list adds to the appeal.

Bib Gourmand • Classic Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. Situated in an excellent location slightly above the road, this traditional grotto-style restaurant with a large car park is quiet and cool in summer, with a dining room warmed by a fireplace in winter. In this delightful location, enjoy classic, well-prepared and generous cuisine with personal touches made using top-quality, seasonally inspired ingredients. Make sure you try the venison tartare with marrow gratin and pear jelly, as well as the delicious artisanal ice creams. The highly welcoming and attentive service is clearly in evidence in the dining room.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Mediterranean Cuisine. This place has all the makings of a cherished favourite restaurant! Tucked away in a courtyard, it has a pleasingly vibrant and laid-back atmosphere. Closely spaced tables and Turkish background music add to the bustling feel. In the open kitchen, modern Turkish dishes are prepared: expect dishes packed with bold flavours and sometimes with a touch of heat. Shining examples of dishes made using the grill and wood-fired oven, which play a major role, include mini lahmacun (freshly baked bread with lamb, yoghurt cream and onions) and manti (potato ravioli with yoghurt, salca butter and parsley). Be sure to try the baklava. Drawing on Middle Eastern culinary tradition, the menu features an array of smaller dishes and larger platters that are ideal for sharing. The "Gülty Menü Sürpriz" is also an excellent choice (for the whole table only). Tip: Creative cocktails are mixed at the restaurant's own bar.

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Regional Cuisine. This picture-perfect inn is warm and welcoming and certainly looks charming inviting with its red shutters. Chef-patron Falk Fleischhauer manages to strike a balance between home-style and classic cuisine – the result is delicious and reasonably priced dishes. Consult the blackboard for enticing daily specials, or plump for tasty classics. The menu ranges from tripe to sea bream fillet and Angus beef entrecôte. The service is very friendly and anything but stiff. In summer, the lovely tree-lined terrace is a real draw.

Bib Gourmand • European Contemporary. This trendy, urban restaurant and bar is located in the middle of a residential area in Kreis 5 (Zürich's fifth district). The atmosphere is lively and bustling, and in light of their interesting concept, it comes as no surprise that the place is well frequented: they serve tasty modern European cuisine with dishes in starter-sized portions (four is a good number to order). Mouthwatering options include the likes of veal shank ragout with mashed potatoes, confit garlic and Trevisano. Alternatively, there is a five-course set menu – available in omnivore and vegetarian versions. Good wine list and cocktail selection.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, International. This charming establishment perched in a small mountain village is your reward after the narrow, steep drive up! The fact that the restaurant has many regular customers is of course mainly down to its tasty traditional cuisine. The dishes are prepared with flair from good, fresh produce from the region. Popular options include stews and ravioli. A four- to seven-course set menu is also available if you pre-book (two days in advance). Seasonal specialities such as venison and chamois or Metzgete (pork platter) are also worth considering. Tip: Soups, sausages, jams and other delicacies can be purchased to take home. There are pleasant rustic-style guestrooms for overnight stays. N.B. Cash only!

Bib Gourmand • Seasonal Cuisine, Contemporary. This lovely old-school bistro ticks all the boxes when it comes to good vibes. It has been tastefully refurbished to showcase features such as its original tiling, wooden banquette seating, mirrors on the walls, a large chandelier fashioned out of old copper pans and a small service counter. As for the food, chef Clément Thellier has designed a short, savvy menu that makes your mouth water with its well-crafted and beautifully presented dishes: sweetbreads en barigoule, bacon crisps, split peas with bacon; beef tenderloin, toasted bread, pan-fried foie gras, mini vegetables and potato emulsion; poached and glazed pineapple, toasted pain d'épices and rum ice cream. A lovely dining experience at a reasonable price – not to be sniffed at in Geneva!

Bib Gourmand • Italian. Housed in a historical building (1913), La Bottega is a wonderfully inviting and lively ristorante and salumeria under one roof. Guests are spoilt for choice between the tasty dishes, clearly influenced by Ticino tradition, and the superb selection of salami and ham at the counter – here, the friendly mastri salumieri serve up the cold cuts. Tip: Try the house wine, Merlot di Ticino, poured from a six-litre bottle!

Bib Gourmand • Modern Cuisine, French. Bang in the heart of the historic centre, this charmingly quaint establishment boasts a summer terrace opposite the protestant church on picturesque Temple Square. High whitewashed wooden ceilings and sandstone arches rub shoulders with light, modern fixtures in the spacious dining room. The culinary score stars tasty Gallic recipes (including a vegetarian menu) of modern inspiration crafted with first-class ingredients. The sommelier can be relied on for insightful tips and wine-tasting evenings with savvy food-wine pairings are regularly organised. The front-of-house team is professional and attentive. Booking recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Italian Contemporary. With rustic floorboards, bare wooden tables and charming decorative touches including stylish chandeliers, paintings, wine bottles and wall clocks, the setting could not be more inviting. The atmosphere is pleasingly laid back; it's clear that the team enjoys what they do, and that strikes a chord with diners, who are basically treated as friends. The down-to-earth cuisine suits the vibe perfectly. Whether you plump for the pasta of the day, the red prawn carpaccio or the vitello tonnato, you are guaranteed a flavoursome dish made with select, fresh ingredients. The range of moderately priced wines is outstanding!

Bib Gourmand • Italian. In the charming Hotel Walther, one of Pontresina's most emblematic hotels, this lovely Trattoria has an authentic, lively atmosphere and a stylish rustic feel. The appetising menu embraces all regions of Italy, with delicious pasta as the centrepiece and the focus firmly on flavour and freshness. Friendly Italian service and a good selection of wines.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Traditional Cuisine. Here at this inn dating back to 1288, the food is terrific – the skilful chef clearly pours a lot of love into his cooking. As well as regional dishes and classics, Asian and Mediterranean influences make their way onto the menu. A meal in their Gaststube is a somewhat simpler affair. There is a lovely terrace overlooking the pond, plus a charming smoking lounge. They offer comfortable and functional guestrooms, along with a charging point for electric vehicles.

Bib Gourmand • French Contemporary. Like its fine dining counterpart, Le Bistro promises diners a stunning view, whatever the season and whatever the weather, particularly if you ask for a window table when booking! A modern interior and a simpler culinary score, but quite the equal of its sibling in terms of taste and culinary know-how. Dishes to share include rillettes of Grisons salmon, lemon zest, herbs and croutons; platter of Armand Stuby saucisson and dried meat. Examples of main courses: gruyere-flavoured malakoffs (cheese balls); pike from Lake Geneva in puff pastry; stew of lamb from Dents-du-Midi, and of course, the house signature, chocolate tart!

Bib Gourmand • Classic Cuisine. Next to the Fine Arts School, this vintage bistro cuts a fine figure with its cement tiles, designer light fixtures and bare bulbs, as well as a bar, banquettes and bistro chairs. The bistro lineup is packed with first-rate, carefully crafted seasonal ingredients: risotto-style celery, truffle and foie gras, confit lamb shoulder, cumin, asparagus and labneh or braised aubergine to die for… Take a peek through the small window that separates the dining room from the kitchen and admire the white-jacketed brigade hard at work. Bookings recommended as it is invariably packed with regulars! Pleasant pavement terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Classic Cuisine. This endearing venue with a bubbly vibe in the heart of Geneva is characterised by a new take on bistro fare. The concise menu, which ranges from delicious home-made pasta (pappardelle with rabbit) to exquisite desserts like rhubarb and mascarpone pavlova, will set your tastebuds drooling. Its location on the doorstep of the university, paired with a pleasant conservatory and terrace, contribute to its success – booking essential.

Bib Gourmand • International. Between Vevey and Corseaux, this establishment sports a warm, contemporary interior, depicted by a striking claret-coloured wall and a long wooden counter. The simple, spot-on concept revolves around a set midday menu and creative dishes to share in the evening. The culinary lineup shines the spotlight on premium produce: carpaccio of tuna with ponzu and miso, roast pork cutlet and a creamy blackberry and raspberry delight to finish. Alfresco dining on the patio in fine weather and cheerful, professional front-of-house service courtesy of the smiling owner. The establishment also organises private cookery and pastry workshops (on request).

Bib Gourmand • Classic French, Traditional Cuisine. The stylish restaurant of the tasteful and historical La Couronne hotel not only has a unique atmosphere but also promises exquisite French and Swiss-inspired cuisine served by a friendly and attentive front-of-house team. The location in the old town, nestled beside Kathedrale St Ursen, is a draw in itself; the terrace in front of the hotel makes for a delightful spot in which to "see and be seen" – especially during a romantic sunset. The wine list comprises some 150 moderately priced labels and includes a decent selection of half bottles. The fantastic wine bar is ideal for a nightcap. Smaller lunchtime menu. Tip: Complement your culinary adventure with a leisurely stroll between Baseltor and Bieltor.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Farm to table. A truly historic restaurant which has been serving food since 1850. The present chef has experience in some of the finest restaurants, and it shows! His cuisine is elegant and refined, including dishes such as chuck beef braised in beer (paying tribute to the chef’s Belgian origins) and a delicious vegetarian menu which is always available. An unqualified success!

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Farm to table. The secret of Linde's success is a formula of classic Swiss cuisine made from good ingredients coupled with reasonable prices. A lively atmosphere reigns in this attractive, well-run place with its various dining spaces, large bar area and glassed-in kitchen. Steak tartare and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (veal) are among the permanent fixtures on the menu. For lunch, the offer is somewhat reduced. The wonderful terrace comes into its own in summer, and there are well-kept guestrooms too.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table. Julien and Morgane Ostertag's winning combination of good produce and no-frills, expressive, gourmet dishes creates a moment of indulgence, enhanced by the view over the lake. From the terrace or behind the bay windows of the elegantly decorated dining room, bistronomy is at the heart of the chef's offering: Valentin Chappuis' caramelised pork belly, patatas bravas and crispy sucrine; Mediterranean-style scorpion fish, taggiasche olives, tomato marmalade with basil and panisse. The service is friendly and charming. Don't hesitate to head upstairs!

Bib Gourmand • International. The standouts of this alpine chalet-inspired eatery are its warm, stylish atmosphere and its enthusiastic owner chef, who has been hard at work here since 2003. He invites you on a culinary journey, packed with surprises and strewn with forgotten heritage recipes, as he acquaints you with the region’s delicacies: lamb from Val Ferret, veal of the Herens breed, Valais black truffles… Alternatively, head to the small adjoining brasserie and sample its daily specials: poached sole roulade, home-made sauerkraut and champagne-laced beurre blanc… a real treat! Pleasant guestrooms for overnight stays.

Bib Gourmand • Japanese. Set in the Esplanade de Montbenon park, opposite the courthouse, this Japanese restaurant will win you over with its peaceful setting and quality cuisine. In summer, the terrace boasts a breathtaking view of the lake. Comfortably perched on a high stool, you can savour a variety of authentic Japanese dishes, including delicate sushi, tasty teppanyaki, beef tartare with wasabi, and a refined take on soba noodles. This is a popular place, so booking your spot at the counter is strongly advised.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Piedmontese. Just a few metres from the River Rhône and the BFM theatre, this popular restaurant appeals with its trendy and relaxed bistro-style atmosphere. It serves seasonal modern cuisine based on quality regional ingredients, in dishes such as roast cuttlefish, purple potatoes and cime di rapa. The food is accompanied by a terrific wine list including organic options. And for an even more convivial experience, plates are designed for sharing! Friendly service, too.

Bib Gourmand • International, Country cooking. Housed in the Schützengarten Brewery building, this trendy restaurant is popular, not least among the locals! The decor here is lovely – rather rustic at the front, more elegant in the area to the rear. The terrace and beer garden are delightfully secluded – the brewing happens next door, so you're often greeted by a pleasant malty aroma. The menu features Swiss classics such as Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (sliced veal served in a cream and mushroom sauce) and, every Wednesday, fried veal liver with rösti. The saffron-scented fish soup with vegetables and garlic bread is equally delicious, and vegetarian options are available too. Tip: In the courtyard, the brewery has a small bottle museum – well worth a short detour.

Bib Gourmand • Scandinavian, Farm to table. In a seamless fusion of a cafe and a brasserie, Njørd Café adroitly rolls out a savvy mix of Scandinavian and Swiss delicacies. Wind down in the casual vibe as you savour finely crafted fare, underpinned by first-class produce that is always in tune with the seasons: lovage-flavoured hemlagade köttbullar (meatballs), carpaccio of veal with pine nuts and black garlic, smörgås (sandwiches) of North Sea shrimp… The buzzy, verdant terrace is a hit in fine weather. Weekend brunches and other regular events further enhance the establishment’s appeal. The Hemma Hotel provides minimalist, tastefully decorated accommodation.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Seasonal Cuisine. This lively restaurant is located on a steep little street in Geneva's old town. Against a chic industrial-style backdrop with an open kitchen, diners are treated to modern, seasonally inspired Italian cuisine and fine wines, plus attentive and friendly service. It's best to book, as Osteria is very popular! Across the street there is a lovely terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. This charming family-run establishment has been going for 40 years. With Manuela and Rolf Fuchs at the helm, it proposes this bistro as an attractive alternative to their fine dining restaurant Cayenne. The excellent food is moderately priced: ostensibly simple dishes are crafted with care and premium ingredients, consistently featuring a modern twist. Local sourcing and seasonality are key – and you can really taste the difference! Friendly and adept service. Both restaurants share the same wine list. The wonderful views are best enjoyed from the tables by the windows or on the splendid terrace.

Bib Gourmand • Swiss. If you like your food straightforward and pared down, without compromising on taste, then you'll love the excellent Engadine cuisine served here. In the pleasingly unpretentious restaurant of the charming little hotel of the same name, the dishes forgo any frills to showcase select, fresh local produce. Good wines at fair prices. Shorter menu at lunchtime. Highlight: The hotel houses a museum (admission fee) exhibiting graphic works by renowned Swiss sculptor and painter Alberto Giacometti and some objets d'art by his brother Diego.

Bib Gourmand • International, Swiss. A popular place to eat! A relaxed atmosphere reigns in this inviting contemporary interior, where diners tuck into pleasingly unpretentious dishes that impress with their flavours and craftsmanship. The menu features not only traditional regional dishes, including classics such as beef tartare, but also Asian specialities in the "Thai Corner" section of the menu, such as gaeng mussaman – a mild Thai curry with peanuts and king prawns. There is also a pleasant terrace with a magnificent view of the mountains of the Bernese Oberland. Next to the restaurant, the small Hotel National has cosy guestrooms. It also has its own confectioner's.

Bib Gourmand • International, Seasonal Cuisine. The location in the side wing of the modern Klinik Gut private hospital may be a little unusual, but the food here is excellent… thanks to Sebastian Titz (previously at Verve by Sven in Bad Ragaz), who cooks up regional and seasonal cuisine that cuts to the chase. Lunch is the main affair here: dish of the day, a small à la carte selection and set menus (fish/meat or vegetarian), as well as a weekly special and "Our House Speciality". A tasting menu is served on Thursday evenings. The decor is trendy and minimalist in style, with an open kitchen; the view of the mountains and the surrounding area is fabulous – tables on the terrace are understandably coveted.

Bib Gourmand • Classic Cuisine. Dating back to 1497, this historical townhouse in Zug's old town is a lovely location. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere here are appreciated by locals and tourists alike. Diners can choose from the selection of classics such as cordon bleu, Lammhacktätschli (lamb patties) and beef roulades, and there is also a seasonal menu. The tables on the gorgeous terrace in front of the building in the cobbled pedestrian area are coveted. Tip: Just a stone's throw away, the lakeside is perfect for a stroll.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Swiss. A feel-good spot through and through, this bistro run by the Kalberer family owes much of its appeal to the unmistakable warmth of its hospitality. The elegant historical setting and attentive service provided by staff in traditional dirndl attire add to the charm. And then there's the wonderful food, which is both sophisticated and fairly priced. Classics such as braised veal cheeks and Hacktätschli (meat patties) are delicious. Highly recommended: the seasonal set menu featuring three to four courses. Impressive wine selection. Tip: The cosy garden restaurant opens in summer.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Regional Cuisine. In this restaurant in the upper reaches of the city, a rather elegant yet relaxed atmosphere awaits you. The kitchen team showcases in-season regional produce in really delicious dishes. While Ronny Zipfel presides in the kitchen, maître d' Nicolas Schumnik heads up the experienced front-of-house team. In summer, head for the leafy terrace. Tip: It is easy to get here by taking the no 10 tram or the Funicular Rigiblick.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. The restaurant of this family-run chalet hotel presents an interesting concept in a friendly atmosphere. Classic cuisine is on offer at lunchtime and in the evening; in addition there is a lunch deal and a "close-to-nature" gourmet set menu every evening from Tue to Sat. The top-notch ingredients are almost exclusively sourced locally, many of them harvested by the chefs themselves.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, International. An attractive blend of urban cool and historical ambiance is the backdrop here and the exposed old brickwork certainly adds to the effect! On regular evenings, the kitchen serves up regionally inspired dishes with an international twist, either as a three- to five-course set menu or à la carte. Classics include, for example, hand-cut Irish beef fillet tartare. Thursday evenings are dedicated to Japanese fusion cuisine. More limited options at lunchtime. Attentive, charming and adept service. Thanks to the beautiful location in the Old Town, right by the Aare River, tables on the waterfront terrace are coveted in summer.

Bib Gourmand • Swiss, Regional Cuisine. This restaurant is a little out of the way, but it's worth the journey to this remote location, knowing that a cosy, rustic-style space awaits diners, as well as a lovely terrace, which is very popular in summer! But let's not forget the cooking of owner Christoph Hunziker: his flavoursome dishes show strong ties to the region, follow the seasons, and are occasionally given a modern twist. You can choose à la carte or opt for the set menu ("Geniesser-Menu"). The service is charming – even the chef likes to get involved front of house. Tip: At lunchtime, the set menu is a bargain.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Swiss. At the Häfliger family's restaurant, the aim is to unite the new with the tried and tested. This principle is reflected both in the property itself, whose period architecture is complemented by elegant modern accents to create a welcoming setting, and the work of the team led by chef-patron Oliver Häfliger, who represents the fourth generation at the helm. He wins over diners with traditional regional and seasonal dishes that are skilfully crafted and brimming with flavour. His wife, Stefania Martinelli, presides over the attentive and well-organised waitstaff. The à la carte options, daily specials and seasonal or surprise set menus all delight in equal measure. The wine list is also well worth exploring – it includes bottles ranging from small formats to double magnums and features some big names. This place even has its own excellent spring water! Pleasant terrace to the rear of the building. Tip: Delicious cheese is sold in the cheesery next door.

Bib Gourmand • International, Seasonal Cuisine. In the restaurant of the grand Hotel Stadthaus, whichever one of the different rooms you are seated in, the same delicious cuisine is on the menu – from Swiss classics, such as Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, to vegetarian dishes and a set "Bistro Menu". There is also an ambitious "Gourmet Menu" on Thu-Sat evenings. The selection of wines by the glass and by the bottle is also impressive. In summer, you can enjoy your meal on the arcaded terrace at the entrance.

Bib Gourmand • Regional Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine. Dating back over 300 years, this traditional Graubünden house abounds with charm. The cosy, rustic restaurant, with its sloping walls, old soapstone stove and beautiful wood-panelled ceiling, has the feel of a place steeped in history. The hearty food is firmly rooted in the region, with classics such as Capuns (Swiss chard rolls) and Maluns (fried potato crumbles), as well as saffron soup, beef tartare, and sliced veal with creamy mushroom sauce – simply delicious! Prices are very fair, and service is pleasingly friendly and informal. It's wise to book, as the restaurant is very popular, especially with regulars from the region. Tip: Take a slice of walnut tart home with you.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. It quickly becomes clear that this friendly, buzzy venue is light years from your average Thai eatery. Everything is made from scratch with fresh, first-class ingredients and the flavours are both refined and rugged. Examples include fried rice balls with pork (Laab Nem Tod) and fried rice with crab and spring onions (Khao Pad Pool), without forgetting the starters that are ideal to share. The friendly, casual front-of-house team sets the tone and in summer, a few tables are laid on the pavement. A word to the wise: booking is essential, even at lunchtime!

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Farm to table, Barbecue. Anyone heading to see the "Wizard of Entlebuch" in Bramboden should be prepared for something special. Like Wiesner – Zauber, Werkstatt – Kost is housed in the Weitsicht hotel. The location is simply magnificent; the terrace is idyllic, boasting one of the loveliest views in the whole region. Stefan Wiesner brings his nature-inspired culinary philosophy to the plate. For his four-course set menu, he sources ingredients from nearby woods and meadows, as well as the on-site garden – and prepares them using fire, embers and smoke. Tip: It's well worth spending the night. That way, you will have the opportunity to go rambling through the breathtaking scenery and to cook your own dinner over an open fire. In the morning, the chef leads a short guided foraging walk for wild herbs, during which some of the ingredients for breakfast are gathered – a one-of-a-kind experience! Another unique touch: you can even catch a ride here on the local PostBus at the weekend.

Bib Gourmand • Classic Cuisine, Seasonal Cuisine. The journey out to the countryside is well worth it for the experience of cuisine cooked with heart and passion. The menu ranges from lobster and wild boar entrecôte to classics of regional cuisine such as house-made Kalbshackbraten (veal meatloaf) and beef fillet stroganoff. Plump for the set menu or dine à la carte. In both the simple Wirtsstube (ground floor) and the more upmarket Pratum (first floor), the atmosphere is cosy – the latter also has a pretty terrace for summer days; it is converted into a fondue parlour from November to February. Tip: Their Wyberg Shop has lots of tasty treats that you can purchase to enjoy at home.

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Traditional Cuisine. This restaurant in the middle of the old town is not only steeped in history, it is also a treat for epicureans. Top-notch, down-to-earth cooking, staff who go the extra mile and a buzzing atmosphere make for a perfect dining experience. While Tamara Bader heads up the service team with effortless charm, her husband Stefan whips us delectable dishes rooted in classic tradition. Think pan-fried sweetbreads with mashed potato, spring vegetables and a morel sauce. House classics such as the cordon bleu are also in high demand. The impressive wine list is dedicated to Swiss, French and Italian labels. Delightful terrace in front of the building.

Bib Gourmand • Austrian, Seasonal Cuisine. Here, you won't want to miss out on the Austrian specialities such as Backhenderl (breaded fried chicken), Tafelspitz (prime boiled beef) or Topfenknödel (curd dumplings)! Available in a large or small portion, the Wiener schnitzel is a real highlight. Be sure to ask about the fish of the day, freshly caught from the adjacent Lake Zug. As well as the good food, diners can look forward to professional and attentive service in a cosy and stylish setting – the Austrian charm of the decor is the perfect match for the cuisine. The lakeside location provides a lovely backdrop. The nearby multi-storey car park is handy.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Swiss. Considered the largest erratic boulder in the canton of Zurich, the Pflugstein is located just above this distinguished half-timbered house dating from 1750 and lends its name to this idyllic restaurant 550m above sea level. The interior comprises an attractive wood-panelled space and a room with a fireplace; outside, the terrace beneath the boughs of plane trees comes into its own in the warm seasons. The service team overseen by the charming Jeannine Meili also deserves a mention. The kitchen prepares classic, regional and seasonal dishes made from fresh ingredients – à la carte or as a set menu. Tip: try the tender boiled beef!

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Regional Cuisine. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1 500m above sea level, this restaurant is just 250m away from Hérémence's high-speed lift station. The breathtaking mountain vistas are undoubtedly one of the restaurant's standout features, best enjoyed on the fantastic terrace. Alternatively, you can savour the view from indoors, where the atmosphere is modern and relaxed. Incidentally, the numerous decorative works of art are available for purchase. This restaurant's commitment to sustainability and its strong attachment to the region are evident in the selection of produce, such as fillet of Swiss grass-fed ox or cheese. The short wine list features labels from the region.

Bib Gourmand • Congee. A Hsing has been serving Tainan-style milkfish congee since 1965, attracting a queue as early as 5am every morning. You can specify the cut you want; the belly is the most prized part of the fish, boasting fatty, silky flesh. The congee base is flavoursome; fried garlic pieces on top add extra aroma. Feel free to order milkfish belly dressed in soy sauce as well. Unlike most simple shops in Tainan, air-conditioned seating is available inside.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. A firm favourite among many Taichungians, this noodle shop is now run by the third generation of the family. For 60+ years, the signature dish has remained unchanged – blanched egg noodles tossed in braised ground pork sauce and fried scallion. Marinated egg is optional, but a dab of the house-made sweet chilli sauce is mandatory. Equally popular are the fried tofu puff soup and the so-called ‘all at once’ soup, well-seasoned with spicy pickled mustard stems.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Amid century-old shops on the same street, A Wen opened its doors only in 2016. But it has quickly won the hearts of many with their rice cake made from scratch. Rice milk is mixed with three sweet potato starches for the right consistency before steamed, sliced and fried till golden. Try the Zhao Pai variety for rice cake in bamboo shoot pork sauce. The over-easy egg is the icing on the cake (pun intended); try also their house-made chilli sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This place that started out as a corner stall some 30 years ago is now a fully-fledged joint with a bright, clean room… but the friendly service and bustling ambience haven't changed! Freshly slaughtered milkfish is the main draw – as a soup slow cooked with milkfish bone and head for natural sweetness, or fried milkfish belly with crispy skin and tender flesh. Rife with rustic aromas, the garlic rice drizzled with lard is the breakfast of choice for many.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Taro shaved ice is a popular Taiwanese dessert, but the ritzy taro extravaganza sold here is hard to beat. Creamy mashed taro, chewy taro balls, mini mochi, molasses pearls and Job's tears are piled onto a bed of finely shaved sugarcane ice that imparts a faintly smoky flavour. And if that's not decadent enough for you, order extra toppings! Their hot red bean soup is another comforting classic that warms the heart and soul.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Stained glass windows and wooden shelving contrast beautifully against the cement walls of this noodle shop. The owner used to run a private kitchen specialising in Jiangzhe cooking. The menu thus revolves around noodles from Jiangzhe area, along with some Sichuanese options. The side dishes she makes every morning are also a reason to visit – try the bitter melon simmered with rock sugar if available. Open 3 days a week. Check social media before visiting.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. A household name for over 60 years, Amei was remodelled when it moved to this venue. Red tablecloths add colour to the wood-rich interior. The small menu is big on banquet classics and century-old recipes, combining the natural umami of ingredients with the locals’ love of savoury-sweet dishes. Rou mi xia is a thick broth of diced veggies topped with deep-fried whiskered velvet shrimps from Anping. Ask about items that need pre-ordering when booking.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This shop began as a street stall over 60 years ago. Into the third generation, the family business still attracts diners in droves with good old comfort food. Its eponymous ang gu noodles see springy and thick oil noodles tossed in aromatic scallion oil with chives and bean sprouts. Ribbon rice noodle soup is another crowd stopper. For a range of textures, try three-brother soup with taro, mushrooms, and squid ink pork balls in pork bone broth.

Bib Gourmand • Hakkanese. This béton brut villa in a quiet alley sports a lofty, minimalist vibe and an open kitchen. The family has been selling bantiao, or flat rice noodles, for over 20 years and the third-generation owner has added a bigger Hakkanese menu on top of the signature noodles. The family favourite, braised pork, stands out with melting, gelatinous skin and a savoury-sweet soy flavour. Popular dishes tend to run out, so come early.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This third-generation family business dates back to 1956 and many Kaohsiungese grew up with its ‘tube’ sticky rice, which is actually steamed with braised ground pork in a metal tub, turned out on a plate and topped with gravy. Do order a soy-marinated ‘iron egg’ on the side to go with the rice. There are also several soups on the menu, including steamed egg custard soup – the sponge-like custard sucks up the flavourful stock nicely.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. With bar stools, a show kitchen and a soundtrack of Mandarin golden oldies, this self-proclaimed lab experiments with noodle recipes from around the world, serving up bold creations that impress with depth and layers of flavours. The menu changes with the seasons, and the same bowl can include produce from different culinary cultures – bopi chillies, red miso, sambal, green papaya and even ratatouille, to name but a few.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The shop may have little ambiance to speak of, but it’s brightly lit and always spotless. Since its founding over 60 years ago, it has focused on two items only – peanut zongzi and kelp miso soup. The kitchen team at the back is always busy wrapping the signature sticky rice dumplings in bamboo leaves, to be steamed and topped with sauces and ground peanuts before served. Consider taking home some frozen zongzi, especially around Dragon Boat Festival.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. With a calligraphy mural and carved wooden wall art, the white interior exudes an arty vibe. The owner named it after his mother’s nickname and the mindfully prepared healthy score is also inspired by his mum. The menu sees mostly noodle dishes from Chinese provinces in MSG-free vegetarian broth rich in natural sweetness, whilst steering clear of heavily processed foods. Also try fried tofu skin roll filled with basil omelette and pork cartilage.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The "Mothers of the Field" programme trains rural women to start their own businesses selling local specialities – and this small shop is one such establishment. It prides itself on milkfish that is farmed by the women themselves and certified additive-free. Its signature milkfish fillet is aged and seared in its own oil for crispness and umami. Try the three-cup milkfish sausage, and the jiggly sweet potato jelly with house-made brown sugar, too.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Now helmed by the second generation of the family, this well-known landmark of Taiwanese home-style cooking has been in business for over 60 years. Masterful control of heat and a dexterous use of sauces depict the food, most of which comes in three portion sizes. Hallmark dishes include stir-fried pork belly with garlic sprouts and stir-fried clams with mung bean sprouts. Wild-caught marine fish, braised or pan-fried, is also popular.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Originally a hawker stall in a residential neighbourhood, Cheng Shi (‘honest’ in Chinese) took up this space in 2020 to serve health-conscious diners with all-natural egg noodle soup. Their clear broth made with kombu is a lot lighter than versions offered by their competitors and the variety generously topped with clams is especially popular. You can even specify how soft or firm you want your noodles. Expect to wait during peak hours.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This simple shop is always jam-packed with customers. Its signature is undoubtedly the eponymous duck rice – smoked duck pieces on steamed rice drizzled with a secret sauce. Another speciality, hand-sliced duck leg rice, is available in limited quantity, boasting smoky and juicy flesh. And of course, the duck also goes well with the array of noodles on offer. Try assorted duck offal soup, and side dishes made with bean sprouts.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Chicken features heavily on the menu and the owner is picky about them – he uses only pullets from 5 to 6 months old for their tender meat. Specialities include the classic three-cup chicken that imparts rich aromas, perfect with the chewy pork blood cake. The crispy deep-fried chicken rolls, and the rich, flavourful chicken soup are also worth trying. Don’t forget to end the meal with their homemade egg pudding. Service is warm and friendly.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Founded in 1978, this shop made its name with rice steamed in a soft rush-woven pouch that imparts unique aromas. Though no longer cooked that way, quality local rice is now topped with a dab of house-made pickled potherb mustard for savoury sweetness. Their deep-fried boneless chicken thigh with a golden, crispy crust and juicy meat goes down a treat with the rice. It tends to be busy at mealtimes, so come in the afternoon for shorter queues.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Since 2000, this shop has been famous for its oversize steamed bun sandwiches packed with tasty fillings. The must-try is definitely the assorted gua bao stuffed with crisp pickled cabbage, half-fatty soy-braised pork, ground peanut sugar, and the secret red chilli sauce, all working miraculously together. There is even a plant-based version for vegan customers. Healthy drinks such as Job's Tears milk or almond soy milk are also on hand to quench your thirst.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This stall sells pan-fried buns with crispy bottoms and fluffy tops. Choose between cabbage and pork fillings.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This third-generation family business dates back to 1959 and its signature braised pork rice has been the favourite breakfast for generations of Kaohsiungese. Only the back cut is used, with pork skin and a layer of fat that give the dish a complex depth. Feel free to order shredded pork, dried fish floss, marinated tofu, or even a soft-boiled duck egg to go with the rice. It’s always busy and may close early when all food has sold out.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Ciaotou was the centre of Taiwan’s sugar production and this 6-decade-old joint fascinates its fans with terrific braised pork rice boasting a savoury-sweet taste. Pork shoulder and belly in a specific ratio are hand-diced and braised till melting before being drizzled over steamed rice. Pork thick soup, and assorted pork offal make perfect companions with the signature rice. Expect to queue any time of the day. It closes on major holidays.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. Warm colours and asymmetrical curves lend the room a welcoming casual vibe, but it’s the picture windows overlooking a patio of lush greenery and a winding path that make a meal here a true respite from the hustle and bustle. Come for lunch as the views are especially charming during the day. The à la carte menu prominently features Taiwanese plant-based whole foods, jazzed up with delicate Asian flavours and modern plating.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. In business since 2012, this simple shop moved from the main drag to a quiet side street in 2023, but that hasn't stopped regulars coming for the famous herbal lamb soup. Australian lamb is chosen for its mild flavor; the stock is simmered for a day to extract the aromas and tonifying compounds from the Chinese angelica herb. Call to pre-order the skin-on lamb soup, which tends to sell out. The "black gold" braised pork rice is equally enticing.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Though technically in a night market, this third-generation family business is only open from dawn till dusk. Since 1973, the regulars have been returning for its steamed sticky rice that is chewy but never mushy. Year-old aged rice is mixed with fried scallion and garlic before steamed with lean or fatty pork. It tastes best with homemade sweet chilli sauce and spicy radish sauce. Also try the oyster soup steeped in umami and plump oysters.

Bib Gourmand • Congee. Tainanese don’t need a sign to find good food in every nook and cranny of their city. This shop is one of such joints – a nondescript space clad in corrugated metal sheets, but that doesn’t stop regulars from queuing at the door. Its Tainan-style congee is more like soupy rice than the creamy type. Milkfish fillet, oysters, Chinese celery and rice are drenched in a clear stock to make the brunch favourite of many.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. A favourite spot among locals for braised pork rice, this joint uses mostly fatty pork for its signature dish. The amber sauce has a glossy sheen and the diced pork melts in your mouth like sweets. A drizzle of house-made garlic chilli sauce adds an extra savoury, piquant dimension to the rice. Pair it with the shrimp soup, which boasts chunks of springy minced shrimp, fried garlic bits and a sweet, umami-laden broth.

Bib Gourmand • Shanghainese. The story of the international chain famous for xiao long bao dates back to 1972 when its first shop opened on Xinyi Road. The former flagship eatery is now takeaway-only, but dine-in service is available on the other side of the street in a 330-seater four-storey venue inaugurated in 2020. Besides the aforementioned soup dumplings, also try the sweet and sour pork, bitter melon pork rib soup and steamed taro buns.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. For over three decades, the owner-chef has been supporting charitable causes and cooking for the disadvantaged. Regulars come here not just for his classic banquet dishes, but also for his vision of using only local, eco-friendly ingredients. All dishes, including the array of signature milkfish items, and ‘herbal’ prawns farmed without antibiotics and harmful chemicals, are available in different portion sizes.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This stall in Dongmen Market has long been around and it specialises in thick rice noodles in a clear broth made with chicken bones. The signature seafood taro rice noodle soup is the must-try: deep-fried sea bass fillet, milkfish balls, shrimps and fried egg bits impart robust flavours; scallions deep-fried on site add extra fragrance; the chunk of creamy and starchy taro that melts in your mouth is the icing on the cake.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. A devotee of the goddess Mazu, the owner-chef picked this space near the Grand Mazu Temple for his venture. Motifs of the goddess are dotted throughout the restaurant, from its sign to the shrine-inspired décor. Home-style cooking is kicked up a notch with a touch of sophistication. Leafy greens deftly meld the depth and umami of the fresh, salted and thousand-year egg trio. Try the squid and whelk soup, a classic banquet dish rarely found in Tainan. Closed during Mazu festivities.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. The room isn’t particularly spacious, but it does exude a homely feel. Similarly, the menu features Taiwanese home-style cooking, that is lightly seasoned and in smaller portions. The signature grilled Pacific saury in honey sauce is braised until the bones are tender and edible, perfect with a bowl of steamed rice, pork lard rice, or braised pork rice. Or you can opt for steamed taro root cake with shiitake and dried shrimps as starch.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. For decades, this simple shop has been attracting hungry diners with its signature sliced goose platter boasting juicy flesh and wafer-thin skin. The second-generation owner intentionally leaves some bones and gristles in for diners to gnaw on. Goose offal, marinated meat and other sides are also popular. For starchier dishes, order plain noodle soup, or jazz it up with cuttlefish and thin, flat e-fu noodles.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Diners flock to this semi-self-service shop for pork trotter, hock and leg – braised in a soy-based marinade for up to four hours, the meat is gelatinous, tender and flavourful. It tastes even better with the house-made chilli sauce, cleaner and less complex than with the typical marinade and its strong herbal undertones. The braised diced pork rice and braised fried tofu are also good options. The simple decor makes for a relaxed vibe.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. One of the most famous spots in town for braised pork trotters, this shop keeps the liquid gold – made with soy, rock sugar, chillis and shallots – on a gentle simmer all day, hence the comforting aroma. While trotters are prized for their gelatinous texture, upper leg cuts strike a fine balance between fat, skin and meat. Drizzle the steamed rice with a spoon of marinade. A dab of the house-made bird’s eye chilli sauce cuts through the richness.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Many Taichungians have fond childhood memories of this shop as it has been around for some 60 years. The goose noodle soup combines the Chinese herb Dang Gui, springy goose flesh and robust flavours. If the goose runs out, try the equally enticing duck version. Smoked goose uses adult birds weighing about 6 kg, smoked with cane sugar instead of wood chips. Those craving juicier and fattier meat may ask for the hindquarters when ordering.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Fu Tai Table began as a street vendor over 80 years ago, but not until 2015 did it have a permanent address. It's the perfect place to experience the unique fan zhuo zai culture – diners order a bowl of braised pork rice with several small plates that arrive at the table stacked on top of each other on a tray. Look for the menu on the blackboard. Made fresh daily, the soup with assorted meatballs is also worth trying for its bouncy texture and deep umami.

Bib Gourmand • Hakkanese, Jiangzhe. Thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, diners can sit back and appreciate the beauty of a century-old camellia tree in the yard. The menu is mostly Hakkanese, with some Jiangzhe dishes, jazzed up by creative touches and elegant plating. The signature braised pork belly with dry pickled mustard greens boasts tender texture and succulent flavours, while pickled cucumber cuts through the richness. Also try braised napa cabbage with pork-stuffed tofu.

Bib Gourmand • Jiangzhe. For 20+ years, Garden.V has been valued by locals for its authentic Jiangzhe fare served in generous portions. The three-storey space feels airy and bright thanks to full-length windows. Certain items, such as cabbage rice with Jinhua ham, need to be pre-ordered. Be sure to check out the glass display case for cold appetisers and sides – the kao fu, or fried wheat gluten with mushrooms and bamboo shoot, is savoury-sweet and incredibly appetising.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. Noodles dressed in sesame sauce impart a hint of lemony fragrance, a perfect match for egg drop miso soup.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Opening its doors in 1998, this tiny gem has stood the test of time. The short but sweet menu is packed with well-made small bites at competitive prices: gelatinous and flavoursome braised pork trotter, tender and juicy pork knuckle, and fatty and toothsome braised pork chitterlings. Dine-in customers can order bento boxes with a portion of meat, three sides and rice. Fans of spicy food should not miss the house-made anchovy chilli sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. This popular soup dumpling shop was born over 20 years ago after its owners were taught how to make xiao long bao by a Shanghainese chef. Only the freshest pork hind leg cuts are used as the filling and the dumpling ‘skin’ is made simply with flour and water. Their soup-squirting dumplings are also known for their lightness. The red bean pancake uses two kinds of red beans in its silky filling which is complemented by a crisp sesame pastry crust.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. In 1946, this rice cake joint opened its doors in South District, away from the city’s busy tourist spots. It has ever been a hit with the locals who can’t get enough of its addictive migao, topped with braised pork sauce, fish floss, cucumber and peanuts. The second-generation owner insists on making migao just like his father did: the sticky rice is soaked, steamed and kept warm in a woven reed tub next to the stove to keep it moist and chewy.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This bright, cosy shop moved into this space in 2022. Their signature item of braised pork rice topped with a sunny-side up egg has won the hearts of many local gourmets. The glistening sauce is slow-cooked for 10 hours to allow the flavours to mingle and the hand-diced pork to soften; the runny egg yolk is the centrepiece, enrobing every grain of rice with custardy nectar. Fans of spicy food should add a dab of dried radish chilli sauce with anchovies.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. For over 40 years, Hou Chi has been attracting a loyal following with its tasty duck dishes. Its famously nourishing dang gui duck soup exudes deep herbal aromas; order it with noodles to make a complete meal. The signature duck rice comes with thickly sliced duck and pickled radish. Order an extra platter of smoked or braised duck if you fancy more protein. You can even specify which cuts you prefer.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. With just 8 tables, this little gem is its owner’s pride and joy. Much effort went into the fine details – red bricks against terrazzo walls, bespoke hand-thrown ceramic dinnerware against sleek wood furniture. The aptly named ‘noodles extraordinaire’, artisan ramen dressed in a secret chilli and sesame sauce, are quite unique. Golden, crispy potstickers take 30 minutes to prepare but are well worth the wait.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Its hallmark beef soup is simmered with beef bones, brisket, fat and onion and thin slices of lean beef are added just before serving. Pour on a dash of rice wine for extra fragrance or dip the beef in the fiery homemade chilli sauce for a kick. The broth delivers serious umami, while the sliced beef is tender and flavourful. To sample the varied textures and flavours of different beef cuts, also try cold beef appetisers and stir-fries.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. This little gem with only five tables opened its doors in 1995 and moved to this address in 2010. The chef has been cooking professionally for over 40 years and he excels in making additive-free, simple but delicious Taiwanese dishes with the freshest catch from the sea. Regulars also come for abalone silkie chicken soup, double-boiled with Chinese herbs for two hours. Grilled pork trotter with gelatinous skin and juicy flesh is also unmissable.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Installed next to Cishan Old Street since 1986, this neat little shop has stood the test of time. Pork offal can be paired with egg noodles, glass noodles or steamed rice. The fleshy and springy pork tongue is the popular dish – best enjoyed with a dab of grated garlic for a kick. Braised ground pork rice topped with a sunny-side-up egg is also a must: pierce the yolk so it runs down over the rice for a mouthful of tasty goodness.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. Poised by the entrance to the night market for over 30 years, this stall prides itself on its pancakes. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, they are perfect with honey mustard and basil.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. This restaurant a stone's throw from a train station is famous for its beef hot pot. Meat from Tainan cattle slaughtered that day is hand-sliced or cut into strips, before being blanched in a rich broth made with beef bone, brisket and vegetables. With its juicy fat and gelatinous sinews, the brisket is a carnivore's dream. Be sure to book a table and pre-order your beef; opt for the big portion for maximum marbling.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Without flashy branding and publicity stunts, this decades-old shop has gained the patronage of foodies through word of mouth. Its signature braised pork rice leans more towards the fatty side, but strangely enough, doesn’t taste greasy. The pork sauce packs exceptional depth and a mild gelatinous feel. The thick soup made with bonito flakes and Sa Cha sauce, as well as its braised napa cabbage are to die for! Always busy, despite long opening hours.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Over 60 years old, this eatery has moved four times, but that hasn’t deterred its loyal followers who continue to queue up daily before opening time. Shrimp roll is a classic Taiwanese snack and a must-try for all visitors. Huang Chia’s version is stuffed with shrimp and cabbage and is dipped in a potato starch batter before being deep-fried to order, resulting in a fluffy airy crust, with thinly sliced radish on the side for contrast.

Bib Gourmand • Creative. Formerly a private dessert lab open by appointment only, Hugh turned into a sleek, minimalistic restaurant with regular hours in 2021. The 6- to 7- course dessert dining menu includes the best sweets in season, not only exquisitely plated, but also subverting preconceptions. Courses flow elegantly from one to another, presenting a variety of depth and textures. It’s also worth paying extra for the hidden improvised course. Booking is mandatory.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. As opposed to typical braised pork rice shops that can sometimes feel a little dated, this one boasts a bright, simple interior with full-length windows. The cartoon pig logo also makes it appealing to a younger audience. Despite its fresh look, the menu focusses on good old Taiwanese favourites. Braised pork rice is a must, and you have the option to top it with an over-easy egg. Do also order sides like braised cabbage, and pork tendon.

Bib Gourmand • Hakkanese. Simple and rustic, this century-old house is the epitome of nostalgic charm. The owner-chef sources his produce from small nearby farms to craft a seasonal Hakkanese lineup. There isn’t a set menu, but you can call ahead to check what is available and pre-order. His Hakkanese stir-fries are a must – every ingredient is cooked to perfection and retains its crisp texture, while imparting big-boned flavours and wok hei. Booking recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Next to Meinung Folk Village, Ibu Kitchen specialises in indigenous Taiwanese cuisine made with produce from the Bunun chef-owner's hometown in Mt Tengzhi. The menu is dominated by healthy options such as fried egg tofu in plum sauce with crisp-skinned silken tofu garnished with a compote of three-year-aged shiso plums, fresh plum juice and plum essence. On holidays, only set menus are served for a party of minimum two guests. Greenery and mountain views make for a unique experience.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Tucked away in a quiet alley, the reputation of Inn’s+ is entirely word of mouth. The owner-chef, who used to manage a bistro, re-interprets Taiwanese classics with less fat and less sodium for a health-conscious clientele, without sacrificing flavour or freshness. Her signature baby oyster omelette uses plump, creamy bivalves from Chiayi County, as well as free-range chicken eggs that boast rich flavours. Tailored menus possible for large parties.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Its full-length windows and open kitchen may not look like your typical noodle shop. The owner-chef has honed his skills in French cuisine for over 10 years and opened this minimalistic shop in his hometown for Taiwanese noodles to mingle with French techniques and sauces. The short menu shows promising creativity and it changes every week, except seared ox tongue with noodles in truffle sauce, and cheese caramel flan that are always available.

Bib Gourmand • Yunnanese. Since 1956, this restaurant has been attracting loyal fans with its authentic Yunnan fare made with produce shipped from the province – some recipes were inherited from the owner’s mother. Scaly hedgehog fried rice with shredded chicken stars a rare mushroom from Yunnan that imparts earthy aromas. Another must-try, string bean knots stuffed with minced shrimp, are painstaking to craft and deliver exceptional umami and lovely textures.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. A returnee launched a second career over 10 years ago by opening this no-frills joint that specialises in duck dishes. Perseverance and eagerness to learn helped the shop establish a presence on the food scene, and his original recipes of shredded ginger duck soup, and braised duck rice with fried shallot have secured a loyal fan base. The sliced duck platter made with mule ducks from south Taiwan, slow cooked for 2 hours, is juicy and tender.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. With only 6 tables and a private room, securing a reservation at this little gem can be a challenge. What it lacks in scale, it more than makes up for with the owner-chef’s refined take on Taiwanese cooking, ranging from stir-fried beef with coriander and crispy garlic bits, to home-style poached chicken. Bottarga fried rice impresses with exceptional wok hei, buttery richness and deep flavours. Certain items need pre-ordering.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Come here for the island's favourite food – Taiwanese beef noodle soup. Unlike for your typical red braised variety, this shop doesn't add spicy bean sauce and Sichuan spices to the broth. Boneless short ribs are braised in a soy-based stock with vegetables and fruit for at least 3 hours. The resulting broth imparts a deep meaty flavour and a mild fruitiness; a knob of homemade beef fat takes the umami up a notch. The marinated meats are also worth trying.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Gangshan is famous for its goat and you can’t leave without trying caprine dishes. Before opening Joes in 1955, the founder had long been selling goat in the market. With his connections, Joes always has access to the freshest goats. Signature dishes include Angelica goat hot pot, an herbal tonic with ribs and skin-on cuts. Stir-fried goat with bitter melon, and blanched goat slices with chilli bean sauce are also good. Bookings aren’t accepted.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The absence of both an obvious sign and air conditioning hasn’t deterred hungry locals from flocking here from 7am till late over the past four decades. With generous chunks of deep-fried Spanish mackerel in a stock made with halibut, bonito and fried garlic, the eponymous thick soup makes a great meal by itself or a snack between meals. If you’re lucky, you may even get to try the deep-fried mackerel skin that offers great seafood umami.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Both the owner and his wife are beef lovers, and Ke Kou is their brainchild. The signature noodle soup with red braised beef and sinew boasts a complex and rich broth – simmered for hours with 35 different Chinese herbs – that perfectly complements the springy noodles and tender Australian beef shin. Another must-try is their noodles dressed in duo sauces – the mildly sweet homemade sesame peanut paste, and the savoury bean sauce fried fresh daily.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The push cart out front turns back the clock and the retro vibe is pursued indoors. For over 10 years, the owner-chef has been making fish balls, wontons and sauces from scratch. He orders his noodles from his favourite shop in Shuinan Market because of their bouncy texture. Purists should try noodles tossed in scallion oil for its simple, but addictive aromas. Marlin fish ball soup with salted potherb mustard is another best-seller.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. This unpretentious joint, tucked away in a residential alley, feels homely and relaxing. Each guest is expected to order at least one set menu with a main, rice, and either soup or drinks. The Taichungese rice works well with Taiwanese, Southeast Asian and Japanese dishes. Popular mains include Kung Pao chicken with cashew nuts or golden curry omelette. Everything is sourced and certified from small local farms.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This simple shop, which has been serving lamb soup for over 20 years, is now run by the second generation owner. The signature skin-on lamb soup is slow-cooked with fat-trimmed Aussie ovine and Chinese angelica imparts subtle herbal warmth. The menu also includes blanched veggies and braised pork rice, the latter boasting rustic soy and scallion aromas, as well as a gelatinous texture. Arrive early as the skin-on lamb soup sells out fast.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This household name on the beef noodle scene has been building up a loyal following since 1949. The broth is slow cooked with beef bones and a blend of 10 Chinese herbs. Its exceptional flavour and depth perfectly complement the delicious ribbon noodles, which are hand-pulled to order. The tender local and Aussie beef is of course a highlight. Cold sides such as pork ear in aspic and pickled cabbage are made fresh daily.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The owner’s father was a sergeant major who learnt to make hand-rolled noodles in a village for military families. The noodles are made exactly as they were 60+ years ago, retaining a lovely chew and dressed in sesame sauce with braised ground pork. Order a soft-poached egg on top; let the yolk run and stir before eating. Also try their wontons in wafer-thin skin tossed in a special sauce – the meat filling packs a flavoursome punch.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. An old property in an alley has been remodelled to house this low-profile restaurant. A pared-down interior and casual vibe set the scene, while a Japanese-style wooden counter frames the open kitchen. Taiwanese home cooking and small plates define the concise menu. Try sorghum liquor-scented Kinmen sausages in a crisp thin casing. Salt-baked chicken leg with sweet corn is another must-try, best enjoyed with a bowl of braised pork rice.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. For 20+ years, locals have been swooning over the pork knuckle rice here – ham hock braised in a marinade with spices and Chinese herbs, served with a glistening amber sauce; the peppery aftertaste is spellbinding. Steamed rice from Hualian and a julienne of crispy bamboo shoots cut through the richness. Marine fish cooked to order are also a firm favourite. Noodle lovers can't get enough of the umami-laden pork bone broth lifted by veggie sweetness.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This no-frills shop near the train station has been renowned for its migao since 1955. Glutinous rice mixed with dried shrimps and shallot is steamed in ceramic ramekins (rather than bamboo tubes). The rice cake is then turned out onto a serving plate, drizzled with braised pork sauce and topped with fish floss and pickled radish. They sometimes sell out early and the shop has irregular days off, so call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Founded over 70 years ago, this eatery is justly proud of its famous lamb soup, which is simmered for at least four hours before the Chinese angelica is added for fragrance and invigorating effects. Lamb from central Taiwan is slaughtered and shipped to the shop on the same day to ensure freshness. Scalding soup is poured over the raw sliced lamb cooking it to medium rare. Also try the bouncy lamb skin roll, available on holidays only, and the braised pork rice made with lamb fat.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Vegetarian. There’s no shortage of vegetarian restaurants in Taipei, but not many position themselves as a vegetarian equivalent of an American bistro. The head chef has experience in Sichuan and western cuisines, so his menu shows eclectic influences in addition to pastas and pizzas. Spicy dumplings with tofu filling are Sichuanese inspired; fried cauliflower is enrobed in Korean gochujang glaze; pad krapow burning bowl is a Thai-style salad.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The owner had been selling fried eels and squids for ages before he started serving migao by chance in 1985. Surprisingly, his sticky rice topped with braised pork, sliced cucumber, fish floss and peanut quickly surpassed his original offerings in popularity – and he has focused on migao and sishen herbal soup ever since. The gravy on his migao has a peppery aroma to go alongside the rich and deep flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Sesame oil lover alert: this no-frills shop is famous for cooking with the earthy, nutty oil. Simmered for a whole day, the sesame oil chicken leg soup exudes intoxicating aromas of wine and herbs. Another must-try are their egg noodles tossed in Taiwanese dried shrimp sauce. Sun-dried shrimps from Keelung are ground and slow-cooked in scallion oil for 10 hours producing rounded flavours rich in nostalgic charm, alongside savoury umami.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Nestled in the Dadaocheng area, this family business is now run by the third-generation owners. It opens at 7am for traditional Taiwanese breakfast – egg or rice noodles served in a flavoursome stock made with pork bones, offal and chicken, or dressed in a sweet sauce. Side dishes like pork offal, boiled chicken and blanched squid are also worth trying, but their signature crispy skin braised pork is only available after 10am.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Memorabilia and vinyl records mingle with glamorous portraits and obsolete farming tools in this nostalgic interior. In the same spirit, the menu compiles a list of some much-missed home-style Taiwanese classics of yesteryear. For the perfect companion to a bowl of steamed rice, order the fried chicken leg with old ginger in three-cup sauce, which delivers deep soy, basil and sesame flavours. Ask about the chef's specials on weekends.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Service is friendly at this joint, which has been cooking home-style dishes since 1971. The dining area spreads across two shops, each with two storeys; customers with mobility issues can ask for a table on the ground floor. Most diners pick the catch of the day at the seafood stand, next to which a chalkboard menu lists all the signature dishes – such as baby oysters with minced garlic, and steamed seasonal fish with salted winter melon.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. After selling sticky rice in a market for 10-plus years, the owner couple opened this shop in 2021. Tables are set on a plant-adorned porch with tiled floor and walls; the cartoon duck and handwritten logo create a strong visual identity. The signature boneless duck sticky rice entices with its sesame oil and ginger aromas, while taro pork rib soup boasts starchy tuber infused with meaty flavours. Honey black tea from Taitung makes the perfect pairing.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. In a restored century-old eye clinic, Moon Pavilion juxtaposes colourful velvet-covered banquettes with original wrought iron and red bricks for an interesting clash of industrial and Victorian styles. The food pays tribute to the old-time Taiwanese palate, showing delicate balance and shrewd judgment. Condiments from different Taiwanese counties make appearances in the recipes, including Hakkanese kumquat sauce and Taichungese Nalta jute.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. A family vibe sets the scene in this shop serving healthy home-style cooking. Their signature chicken soup is made daily with freshly slaughtered free-range chicken, whose stock is simmered for hours with extra chicken added at the end so it stays juicy and tender. Blanched noodles dressed in sesame paste and Sichuan pepper oil sport a bouncy texture and nutty, mildly spicy flavours. Don't miss their glutinous oil rice, which tends to sell out early.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This late-night supper venue is perfect for night owls, and the later it gets, the busier it becomes. Unsurprisingly, braised pork rice is the bestseller – freshly slaughtered pork is stewed in soy, sugar, wine and shallot until gelatinous and bouncy. Top with pickles or spicy dried radish to cut through the richness. Served in bento boxes, the rice comes with sides like shredded bamboo shoot, braised napa cabbage and fried tofu.

Bib Gourmand • Hakkanese. This 60-year-old household name is undergoing an 18-month renovation and is temporarily operating at a spot 50 metres from the original shop. From the cartoon cow on the sign to cow-shaped decorations inside, beef is obviously the staple offering here. Local yellow beef is cooked nose-to-tail in traditional Hakkanese ways and the offal is unmissable – try scallion bone marrow, and cold beef tripe dressed in sweet and sour sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Beef Chief rose from humble beginnings in 1996 as a street stall selling beef soup. Now it serves shabu-shabu hotpot using freshly slaughtered beef shipped from Tainan daily. The amber soup base is made with beef bones, veggies and fruits, boasting subtle sweetness. Apart from being served in hotpot, beef cuts and offal are available as stir-fries – try stir-fried beef tendon. Excellent value and friendly service also explain its popularity.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. After five decades of business in Guohua Street Market, the lamb soup stall shut its doors in 2013. Regulars lamented the loss but the owner’s nephew quit his job in Taipei to re-open the shop here. The famous soup made with freshly slaughtered local lamb meat and bones is the must-try item, but do order other lamb cuts and offal blanched in the soup and dressed in sesame oil. Come early – everything is sold out before 11 am.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This neighbourhood noodle shop, which has been going strong for 70 years, is now run by the third generation. Over the decades, regulars have been coming for the preservative-free Shanghainese noodles. Besides crowd pleasers like pork chop or beef shin noodle soup, the pickled cabbage variety is also a best seller, especially when topped with homemade pickled scallion and chilli sauce. Don’t miss side dishes like pickled cucumber.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The owner returned to his hometown in 2022 and remodelled this riverside warehouse into a rustic joint specialising in traditional Hakkanese rice cakes made from scratch. Local seasonal ingredients, such as taro, red beans, mugwort and pumpkin, are added to the rice batter for extra flavour. Steamed rice cake is the must-try, coming in sweet and savoury varieties. The latter is seasoned with in-house dried radish, shredded dried tofu and soy sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Hakkanese. With a career in Chinese cooking spanning more than 40 years, the chef opened this family-friendly restaurant a decade ago. The small menu captures the greatest hits of Hakkanese cuisine, but classics such as braised pork belly with shredded bamboo shoot are given a healthy spin thanks to the low-fat, low-salt recipe and a lighter sauce. Portions can be tailored to your party size; booking is recommended due to the limited number of seats.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Nestled in a department store, the simple space makes an impression with turquoise walls and striking light fixtures. Since the 1960s, this family business has been serving traditional banquet dishes best enjoyed with alcohol. The fourth-generation owner still follows the same ethos; his big-flavoured dishes come in large sharing portions. The deeply flavoured braised cabbage is stewed for 3 hours with dried shrimps, dried plaice and chicken bones.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. A time capsule circa 1960s and a get-together hotspot for locals, this restaurant takes you back in time with vintage knickknacks and nostalgic home cooking that is inexpensive and generously served. The gua bao set menu is hugely popular – steamed buns stuffed with braised pork belly, bamboo shoot, pickles and ground peanuts, while the stir-fried beef with Madeira wine is gingery and flavourful. Help yourself to the steamed rice with lard.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. This century-old Chinese medicine shop was converted into a restaurant specialising in therapeutic food. The sixth-generation owner intentionally kept the apothecary cabinets and used some inscribed plaques as dining tables. Eight tonic soups are offered each day, all tasty and mild in herbal flavour – refer to the menu for their medicinal actions. Make it a complete meal by ordering a set – with noodles tossed in sesame oil, a drink and sweet soup.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. Orange tables add a pop of colour to this simple room done out in wood tones and neutrals. An Americanophile, the owner-chef worked in a Latam fine dining restaurant before opening this casual joint to realise his culinary vision of refined Mexican fare with Taiwanese ingredients. His signature cochinita pibil taco has layers of flavours with slow-cooked pork, house-made habanero salsa and hibiscus-pickled onion. He even makes his own soft corn tortillas.

Bib Gourmand • Indian. Terracotta floor, textured walls, burgundy lanterns and dark wood furniture make for a rustic and elegant decor. On the menu, North Indian fare takes centre stage, characterised by unique spice blends that impart rich, complex flavours. Signatures such as murgh Nawabi (chicken curry) and gosht Lahori (mutton curry) feature succulent meats that have been nicely charred in the tandoori – and go down perfectly with piping hot naan made to order.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Three sisters restored the family courtyard house, turning it into a restaurant with a retro farmhouse feel. The bubbly, friendly siblings serve dishes made using produce grown on their own farm. Comprising four to six dishes and soup, the set menus cover all the greatest hits in Taiwanese cooking, a particular stand-out being the sautéed vegetables with mashed taro. It's tucked away in the mountains and only accessible by car or taxi.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Circa 1949, it was a hawker stall in the Dongmen Traffic Circle before moving here in the 1960s. Now into the second generation, the family business still attracts a loyal fanbase thanks to its duck noodle soup made with the Chinese herb Dang Gui (a.k.a. Chinese angelica root). The amber broth has rounded flavours, a lingering aftertaste and a hint of bitterness. With freshly slaughtered duck and al dente noodles, it makes for a wholesome meal.

Bib Gourmand • Chinese. San Tung opened its doors in 1975 and the most recent facelift has resulted in a bright, modern vibe. The owner’s father founded the shop which initially only sold noodles. The menu then expanded to cover home-style dishes from Jiangzhe, Sichuan and northeastern Chinese provinces, alongside a few Hakkanese choices. Steamed dumplings stuffed with French beans and glass noodles impress with natural sweetness; the tart chilli dip is the icing on the cake.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. Taiwan's first Sichuan vegetarian restaurant is headed up by two chefs, one specialising in vegetarian cooking, the other well versed in Sichuan cuisine. As half of the shop is enclosed in glass panes, the place feels airy and bright. Meat-free dishes imbued with deep flavours and plenty of heat can be made vegan or ovo-lacto vegetarian. Must-try items include the basil-scented vegetarian crisp "tripe" – deep-fried king oyster mushrooms.

Bib Gourmand • Vegetarian. Founded by a vegetarian F&B group in 2020, Shan Guo Tang boasts a lofty space drenched in natural light. The Japanese-inspired wood-rich interior feels serene. Unlike many vegetarian joints, the menu brims with creative gems based on Taiwanese, Sichuanese and Jiangzhe cuisines. Stir-fried vegan pork with French beans and pickled gourd seduces with crisp textures and big-boned flavours, ideal with steamed burdock rice.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This one-man shop sells chicken rice – silky, skin-on boneless chicken thigh on steamed rice, drizzled with soy sauce, and sprinkled with fried garlic bits. Add an over-easy egg to make it extra creamy with the runny yolk. Sides like marinated tofu or cucumber salad are also available. With just six seats around the chef’s station, expect to queue and allow for slower service. It closes when the food is sold out, so come early to avoid disappointment.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The early bird gets the worm; you really need to come early to get a taste of this restaurant’s famous beef soup – it tends to sell out before 11 am. Those in the know go for the hand-sliced Taiwanese beef in a beef bone stock that is amber-coloured and deeply flavoured, followed by stir-fried beef or offal and a bowl of braised pork rice on the side. The rice is slow cooked with pork rind and peanuts for exceptional richness.

Bib Gourmand • Dim Sum. A Chinese herbalist by training, the owner hails from Shanghai and was spoilt by his grandpa who made him all sorts of treats. After he moved to Taiwan, he spent three years trying to recreate the most authentic pan-fried buns from memory and opened this shop in 2009. The pork buns boast soupy filling with the perfect ratio of fatty and lean meat. The veggie buns are light and flavourful, filled with bok choy, dried tofu and mushrooms.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Bawan has been around for over a century in Taiwan – the savoury filling is wrapped in a translucent dough, steamed and served with a sweet-savoury sauce. This shop, opened in 2012, is a relative newcomer, but their smaller version stuffed with spear shrimps and pork shoulder butt have instantly won the hearts of gourmets in Tainan. Try it with a dribble of mustard, or pair it with Sishen soup or shiitake pork soup. Check their media page for closing.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. A sister concept spun off from the household brand, it caters to small groups and families with a menu designed for sharing, and champions low-fat and low-sodium Taiwanese cooking. Signatures such as stir-fried thousand-year eggs with green chillies, and omelette with angled luffa and dried scallops are original recipes not found elsewhere. The airy and elegant space is bathed in daylight and adorned with wood and neutral greys.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. In 2018, Shan Shin opened this spinoff serving healthy Taiwanese cooking in a cosy, sun-drenched space in a detached villa. Quality local ingredients such as Guanshan rice from Taitung and family pork from Changhua are crafted into novel Taiwanese dishes available in individual portions. The crossover between coffee and local food culture is interesting – try the coffee vinaigrette in the set menu and sip a fresh brew at the end of your meal.

Bib Gourmand • Hakkanese. This unsophisticated eatery champions home-style Hakkanese fare whose low fat and sodium content is rich in healthy benefits. The welcome drink, sicklepod tea, is said to promote bowel and eye health. Their signature Silkie chicken herbal soup is slow-cooked for eight hours with over 30 Chinese herbs. To highlight its herbal aromas, the health tonic is intentionally unseasoned. For starch, try their fried rice with home-made pickles loaded with savoury depth.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Converted from Taipower Company former staff housing, this tiny gem serves five Chinese double-boiled soups that come with a side, plus your choice of rice or noodles. Spicy food lovers shouldn't miss the oyster chicken soup with chillies – vegetables nicely complement the umami of free-range chicken legs and oysters from Yunlin . For staples, try Koshihikari rice from Japan mixed with Tainan No. 16 and topped with nori pork floss.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. A spinoff of Old & New Taiwanese Cuisine in Kaohsiung, the name is a homophone for "new fried rice", which is a menu staple here. Signatures such as bottarga and seared scallop fried rice, and veggie fried rice with thick-cut pork cutlet exemplify the kitchen's creative take on tradition. Stir-fries are loaded with wok hei; desserts cleverly incorporate local flavours. The wood-rich decor inspired by US Chinatown diners circa 1920s adds to the fun.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Over 70 years ago, a stall opened by a small park and the owner would sit on a tiny stool to blanch the noodles, to be tossed in pork sauce or served in soup. Nowadays, the park no longer exists, but the owner still sits on a stool like the old days. Soup noodles are recommended – silky, al dente thin egg noodles in a flavoursome broth, topped with velvet shrimps and braised minced pork. Do order sides or braised dishes on top.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This hipster breakfast shop was founded in 2017 before moving to a quiet alley near Xingtian Temple. It prides itself on its egg fritters in south Taiwanese style with a crisp crust and fluffy, soft centre. There are more than 10 fillings to choose from, such as Sichuan pepper sausage, or soymilk chicken. Some of the fillings are also served in the form of rice balls or sandwiched in a steamed dark brown sugar bun like a Taiwanese burger. Everything is made to order.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Famous for ba-wan and taro cake, this institution celebrated its 70th anniversary with a facelift in 2024. The third-generation owner still makes ba-wan like his grandparents did – freshly ground rice milk is poured into a bowl before a filling of pork shin, shiitake, chestnut and bamboo shoot is added. The steamed dumpling is then poached in oil, and drizzled with a sweet bean paste and miso sauce. Add garlic purée or home-made chilli sauce for an extra kick.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. As well as rearing its own free-range chicken, the restaurant is famous for wild vegetables such as betel flowers, Madeira vine and Okinawa spinach. The must-order chicken is available in limited quantities daily – steamed, smoked or deep-fried, the latter standing out on account of the appealing contrast between its crispy golden skin and flavoursome, juicy meat. Located in the city's backyard, it's the perfect spot for a post-hike meal.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. After 20+ years, this family business is now run by the second-generation owner. The must-try sea bass soup uses a stock made with milkfish, tomato, onion and clams, and without oil, cooking wine or other seasoning. The sea bass is then poached in the stock until half-done for a velvety texture. If you are not good with bones, ask for the trunk instead of the head or tail. And be sure to try the pork trotter braised in soy with charcoal-roasted maltose.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Tucked away in a small, dimly lit alley, this cosy spot has been serving up Taiwanese favourites and Sichuan-inspired fare since 2022. The concise menu is wonderfully legible, and the young enthusiastic team prepares each item with great care. Their mouth-watering chicken is a cold dish with silky succulent meat in a secret nutty mala sauce. Head upstairs to the main dining room; solo diners may opt for counter seats to watch the chefs at work.

Bib Gourmand • Creative. Chef Craig Yang was born into a family of restaurateurs with decades of experience in the field of traditional Taiwanese banquets. He puts a new spin on these classics, using French techniques honed in former establishments. The set menu offers 5 courses, with a few optional extras. The honey-glazed pork ribs are made with local cacao bean-fed pork and boast a crisp skin and juicy flesh. Don’t miss the refreshing seasonal fruit-based mocktail.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This genuine institution has been around since 1933 and holds a special place in every Taichungese’s heart because of its no-frills tasty food and bargain prices. There are only three items on the menu. The meatball is a big translucent dumpling stuffed with peppery ground pork, topped with thick soy and a sweet white sauce made with sticky rice and cassava flour. Pair with either fish ball soup or glass noodle soup for a satisfying meal. Irregular opening hours, so call beforehand to check.

Bib Gourmand • Hunanese, Jiangzhe. As the name suggests, the owner is a die-hard fan of the American rock band. But in stark contrast with the band’s postmodern sound, the room feels warm and homely thanks to the generous use of wood. On the menu, home-style MSG-free cooking from Hunan and Jiangzhe takes centre stage. Also check out the catch of the day on the blackboard, including steamed coral grouper with sweet, bouncy and flavourful meat.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This offshoot of a 30-year-old dumpling shop exudes rustic charm with warm wood and rattan features. In tribute to the unique food culture in villages for military families, the menu offers steamed dumplings, side dishes and marinated meat, all characterised by fresh, balanced flavours. Noodles are served in soup or tossed in sauces, with a choice between knife-cut noodles and fine noodles. Also try their steamed pork ribs in spiced ground rice.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Previously known as Pad Thai, this simple shop has generated a lot of buzz on social media since it opened in 2020. In the 2nd floor dining room, diners adore the exotic street vibe and the photogenic blue wall. Despite the name change, the mildly spicy and tangy fried noodle dish is still the must-try, which is truly perfect when paired with som tum, green papaya salad. The Thai coffee is also worth trying. Check its social media page for days off.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. A far cry from your average cramped noodle shop, this is lavish and glam spot. Better still, it also delivers on flavour – the signature beef noodle soup with oxtail, shank, tendon and heel muscle lets you sample a range of beef textures. The broth (free refills available) is made with beef backbones and ribs plus four kinds of tomato and two types of onions for extra depth and dimensions. The hand-pulled noodles come in three thicknesses.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This noodle joint tucked away among residences is run by a married couple. Their signature beef noodle soup comes in two varieties: red braised and clear broth. For the former, Australian beef shin is cooked in a spiced soy-based marinade until tender. The latter is a golden ox-bone soup with thick slices of local beef brisket with a soft but toothsome texture. The flavoursome broth clings to the bouncy noodles, which are made fresh daily.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This shop with a retro hipster vibe sells chhau-a-koe, a soft, chewy Hakkanese bun made with sticky rice and long-grain rice flours. The savoury version is generously stuffed with shredded white radish, dried shrimps, lard and ground pork. The sweet version with taro or red bean filling is also drool-worthy. Faithful to his grandma’s recipe, the chef adds Chinese mugwort to the dough of sweet version for a green colour and a unique herbal aroma.

Bib Gourmand • Cantonese. Helming the kitchen of Tsui Feng Yuan for almost 20 years, chef Peng honours his family’s culinary traditions and handcrafts a Cantonese lineup. Must-tries include crispy duck stuffed with mashed taro, and crispy skin chicken. Exuding divine aromas, his famous beef glass noodles in a claypot need pre-ordering. The glass noodles are seasoned with umami-laden, house-made XO sauce. The portion sizes are good for sharing.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This pushcart near the end of the market may lack a sign but it always attracts a queue. Their shaobing, fried in oil then baked in a clay oven, comes in two sweet and two savoury varieties – try the minced pork or sugar filling.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. After starting out as a street stall in the night market over 45 years ago, it has since morphed into a full-blown restaurant with a bright, spruce interior. The room is filled with the heady aromas of its signature item – ‘black gold’ braised pork rice with a gelatinous sauce that tastes savoury-sweet. The rice goes well with stewed cabbage that cuts through the richness. Minced pork and pickled cucumber in broth are bouncy in texture and loaded with flavour. As well as minced pork and pickled cucumber in broth, try their steamed rice with ‘black gold’ pork sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This shop has been selling the same tasty popiah rolls for over 30 years, though it was renamed and changed location. The fillings, including braised pork belly, tofu skin, ground peanuts and pork floss, impart rich texture. Vegetarian version available.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. This small shop opens until late and is a favourite spot with the locals for late-night supper. The menu features around 20 home-style dishes, most of which are cold appetisers. Freshly prepared daily, these find their perfect companions in plain congee or steamed rice. The signature red-braised pork trotter has a deep flavour imparted by the soy-based sauce without tasting greasy; the grilled eggplant and braised cabbage are also well made.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This restaurant is a relative newcomer in this city swamped by century-old stalls, but it has made a name for itself since 2018 thanks to fresh seafood cooked to order. Its renowned milkfish and assorted seafood congee (more like soupy rice) is lavishly topped with fish skin, fish balls, fish meat, shrimps, clams and cuttlefish, imparting deep seafood umami. Steamed seafood in salt is also popular – try steamed giant grouper for its gelatinous texture.

Bib Gourmand • Dumplings. In 1993, this dumpling shop began life as a street stall in a local market. Now it has become a household name throughout south Taiwan. Apart from steamed pork and beef dumplings, the variety filled with assorted vegetables also stands out – its plump, full skin enrobes a filling of shredded wood ear fungus, green bok choy, glass noodles and dried tofu. Pancake rolls that are crispy and nicely browned are also popular.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Established for over 10 years, this shop offers a menu specializing in medicinal stews. His signature pork ribs, simmered in claypot, remains highly popular for its unique blend of Chinese herbs and mild wine aromas. In addition to the pork ribs, lamb and chicken are also on offer. Don’t forget to dip in the fermented tofu sauce, which seduces with a rich soybean flavour. Free refills of broth mean no soup craving goes unsatisfied.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Founded in 1935, this shop claims to be the creator of calamari rice noodle soup. Into the third generation, the owner still insists on making thick rice noodles with brown rice for its fragrance and firm texture. Calamari from Indonesian waters are cooked in a clear broth with intense flavour, a hint of peppery aroma and a sweet aftertaste. The shop is a bit congested, but clean and air-conditioned. Expect to queue for a table on holidays.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Xingang, in Chiayi County, is famous for its duck thick soup – at Yeh San, you can taste the real thing without travelling there! The owner used to run a duck thick soup shop in Xingang and, when he relocated to Tainan in 2021, he decided to introduce his treasured recipe to locals. The duck is stir-fried in a small pot for lovely wok hei; garlic and bamboo shoots are added for extra depth and aromas. The duck rice is another top choice.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Now run by the third generation, this family shop is known for its authentic Tainan street food. Made from scratch daily, the must-try stewed pork belly shows alternate layers of fat and meat and comes with dried radish, pickles, cucumber and marinated dried tofu on a bed of steamed Tainan rice. The complex, aromatic sauce goes down a treat with the rice. The pork is just as good in gua bao sandwich. The madou rice cake tends to sell out early, so pre-order by phone.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Splitting from Fu Sheng Hao, a household name in the realm of Taiwanese savoury rice pudding known as wagui, the owner started Yi Wei Pin in 2013 to amplify his grandpa’s culinary legacy. Much darker in colour than its Taipei counterparts, the wagui is made with local rice milk, freshly slaughtered pork, velvet shrimps and house-braised ground pork sauce. Try it with washabi or minced garlic also. Their milkfish thick soup is also popular.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Popular among locals for its breakfast since 2016, this spot appeals to regulars with cordial service and rustic, traditional flavours. In the food sector for 20+ years, the owner makes the soya milk, flatbread, egg crepe rolls and xiao long bao himself. His signature pastry bun filled with spring onion and peppered pork satisfies with its bouncy texture and aromatic filling. Ask the owner when the freshly baked flatbread is due out of the oven.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. A 60-year-old shop selling buns stuffed with marinated pork belly, pickles, ground peanuts and coriander.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This simple shop has been around for 30-odd years. Folding tables and plastic stools under the building’s overhang may not sound sexy, but its signature duck with a mild smoky flavour, served either with steamed rice, fried noodles or Hsinchu rice vermicelli soup, is more than worth the trip. The locals adore their sautéed duck blood curd with chives and pickles – the jelly-like curd works well with the sweet, sour and spicy sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Shaved ice is mandatory for anyone spending a summer afternoon in scorching Tainan. But even in winter, shaved ice has its loyal fans. For over 50 years, Yuan Zai Hui has been specialising in eight-treasure shaved ice, traditionally with eight toppings. But the owners serve a simplified version allowing customers to choose five toppings out of 10-plus house-made choices. Signature include mini mochi balls, candied taro and tapioca wedges.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. Formerly known as Yun Lai Fang, this place was renamed and relocated to this address in 2024. The light-drenched room over two levels has wooden furnishings that impart a home-like feel. Regulars will find all their favourites on the menu; these are impeccably made to order by the chef, the son of Yun Lai Fang's founding chef. His signature scrambled egg comes with bouncy, umami-laden shrimps enrobed in silky half-set egg.

Bib Gourmand • Taiwanese. This quaint red-brick mansion built circa 1846 has been home to an omakase restaurant serving traditional Taiwanese banquet dishes since 2015. The room was carefully restored to its former glory, befitting the old-time recipes the head chef got hooked on. For a flat fee per person, your party will be served seven dishes and one soup, all made with local seasonal ingredients like milkfish from Cigu and rice from Houbi. Reservations are mandatory.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. For over five years, Sunee’s street food stall has been renowned for its Khanom A Pong—delicious coconut crepes. Cooked in mini woks over charcoal, the crepes are unique for their light, crispy shell and soft centre—a perfect balance of sweetness and creamy coconut. Be sure to arrive early at this beloved stall to experience these irresistible snacks.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. The owner, an agave plant enthusiast, has adorned this cosy space with agave plants throughout. Vietnamese home cooking, enhanced with local Isan spices, fills the air, accompanied by instrumental music in the high-ceilinged room. All ingredients are homemade, offering a choice of pork or fish sausage for the namneung. Don't miss the standout sticky rice waffle served with sun-dried pork, infused with local Isan flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Thai. For over two decades, this restaurant has been serving seafood here in Little China Town, an area whose streets are lined by vendors. The array of mouthwatering dishes on offer captures local savour. The popular stir-fried prawn with salt and pepper boasts a blend of savoury and slightly salty flavours. The clams with sweet chilli paste and Thai basil is another standout dish – the paste adds a hint of sweetness that complements the Thai basil aroma perfectly.

Bib Gourmand • Thai contemporary. After three years in its previous location, Aunglo by Yangrak is now offering the same friendly vibes in this refreshed setting. The new menu highlights seasonal ingredients with a focus on the catch of the day, grilled Thai rice bowls and flavoursome skewers. Diners can opt for a counter seat for a front-row view of the chefs at work at the grill station. The dishes are great for sharing, and everything is made fresh to order.

Bib Gourmand • Thai-Chinese. Baan Heng was born out of a souvenir and grocery shop the owners’ grandparents started in 1957 called Heng Nguan Hiang. It sold products like homemade Chinese sausage, pork floss and pork jerky. Now, the restaurant serves Thai-Chinese breakfast fare, like their signature Baan Heng sandwich and baked rice with sweet pork sausage in a remodelled wood-themed design that exudes old-school vibes. Add a classic hot Thai black coffee or milk tea for the full effect.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Step inside this Northern and Central Thai restaurant hidden on a side street in Prawet District and you enter a charming dining room adorned with an old-fashioned wooden European decor. Opening the menu reveals dishes, many of which are unavailable elsewhere, that honour the owners’ birthplaces, Chiang Mai and Bangkok. Highlights include kaeng yot phak rim rua and fried minced pork with salted mackerel.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This simple eatery is set in the chef-owner's house. The mouthwatering Thai dishes are made from local ingredients and fresh seafood that’s hard to find in this province. This place offers good cooking and well-seasoned recipes with lovely herbal aromas and the natural umami of shrimps and crab meat. Don’t miss the yellow curry soup with lotus roots. It’s best to arrive early, as bookings are not accepted.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Southern Thai. Uncle Khai's charming garden house on his coconut plantation welcomes diners on a wood-decked veranda. Choose from three simple Southern Thai set menus that showcase top-notch ingredients sourced from local fishermen and friends. Seasonal, home-style dishes, including blue swimming crab or grilled prawns served with jasmine or pandan-coconut rice, arrive from the open kitchen on woven trays with net covers. Save room for the local dessert! Reservation required.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Here at this blue-roofed local favourite they prove there’s more to Ayutthaya than grilled river prawns. Ingredients are carefully selected from produce grown within the community and it uses fish from nearby rivers as the catch of the day. The herb-scented fish cakes are delectable, while stir-fried Chinese kale with deep fried salted fish is equally impressive. Portion sizes are generous, so check before ordering.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Transporting diners back in time, this nostalgic eatery overflows with vintage collectibles – navigate your way to your table past retro movie posters, trinkets and antique toys. The signature minced beef curry with fresh coconut milk proves a perfect complement to the crispy fried gourami fish. With over 20 years in business, Banmai Chay Nam draws crowds with its delicious food and scenic views of Khao Yai, especially during peak season.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai, Seafood. Despite its quirky name and simple interior, Beer Hima offers so much more. The family’s seafood recipes from Nakhon Si Thammarat province are loaded with flavour. The southern Thai sour curry with grouper is packed with turmeric and chilli and delivers the perfect harmony of sour and spicy, while the rich, aromatic shrimp paste in the stir-fried prawns with bitter beans awakens the senses. There’s ample parking and a private room large enough for 30 guests.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Tucked away in a small market stall, this family-run dessert shop is famous for its sweet Bokkia. It's a unique treat: egg noodles, topped with crushed ice and syrup, which is amazingly refreshing and not too sweet. The condimental options are also good quality.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This enduring street food stall is renowned for its egg noodles with grilled pork, prepared using an unchanged recipe for over 40 years. The secret lies in marinating pork rump slices for four hours in a mix of soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper before grilling over charcoal. The well-cooked noodles have a soft, sticky texture, served in a flavourful pork bone broth.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. Spacious and well-organised, this lively spot handles groups with ease, offering both air-conditioned and open-air seating. Even at peak times, service remains swift, and the atmosphere relaxed. The extensive menu focuses on local seafood in tasty, well-crafted Thai dishes. In the rich, bold stir-fried crab curry, the egg is cooked to perfection – a highlight. Spicy seafood soups are plentiful too, making this a reliable option for fresh, satisfying cooking.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Down by the banks of the Chao Phraya, enjoy affordable yet tasty Thai cuisine with relaxing river views from a charming 1950s house. Everything here is vintage, from the old-fashioned décor to the classic cooking techniques and flavours. The traditional Thai curry with pork, shrimp paste and basil is highly recommended. Book table #52 for remarkable private views from the upper deck. Live music adds to the ambience at the weekend.

Bib Gourmand • Thai contemporary. A young crowd sips on cocktails in this trendy hangout, where the décor and lighting render a ruddy hue. The smart menu uses local ingredients to create interesting new textures while preserving Thai authenticity. The pomelo salad with cobia fish, a well-balanced dish combining the sweetness of pomelo with layered tanginess from local vegetables, is a delightful creation. The seared scallop on crispy coconut milk cupcake has a moist texture with crisp snow peas.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Chawee, named after the chef-owner's grandmother, offers an intimate, personalised dining experience, as Thai music plays softly in the inviting space with sage-green walls and vintage touches. Dishes draw on childhood memories or old recipes, in a menu that changes monthly, depending on the season and availability of local ingredients. With fragrant lychee and coconut in a harmonious mix, the spicy lychee salad refreshes the palate with its natural sweet-and-sour balance.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. One of the oldest food shops in Phuket, now run by the second generation, offers the freshest seafood, all prepared à la minute. The chef's impressive wok skills shine through in every dish, with highlights like the aromatic Tom Yam seafood soup and deep-fried squid with garlic and pepper.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. For over 20 years this local favourite has been serving tasty, wallet-friendly chicken rice, first in Sam-Yaek Market in San Sai and now at this larger branch on Old San Sai Road. Show up early, both to beat the crowds and because the food invariably runs out before closing time.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Surrounded by a small garden of papaya, banana, tamarind and fresh herbs, this tranquil open-air eatery feels a world away from full-moon clichés. Booking is essential, as the chef prepares only the exact number of portions each day. The blind menu changes with fresh finds from the local market and pier, alongside seasonal fruits and edible flowers grown in the garden. Highlights include crisp yet juicy deep-fried fermented catfish, while the squid stir-fried with ink and shrimp paste shows off just how fresh the ingredients are.

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. Eung Kham Sai has been run by the same family for over a century and is still serving up classic Northern Thai recipes handed down the generations. The modest space has traditional decor; large windows frame the view outside. Try the freshly made khao bai, rice wrapped around a pork, fish or beef filling, or the spicy Northern-style curry, made from scratch with local beef brisket and exuding fruity acidity. Some ingredients come from local farms.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This hidden gem, tucked away in a Bangkok alley since 1999, excels in fish ball noodle soup. They offer fresh, umami-rich fish balls, al dente noodles, and a savoury, aromatic broth. Optional toppings like cheese and poached egg, along with large servings and ample condiments, provide great taste and value.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. The constantly busy Go Benz has been serving popular dishes, including their speciality pork with peppery broth and rolled rice noodles, for over 20 years – and it’s easy to see why it’s quite such a popular spot. Many of the dishes often sell out, like the fragrant dry boiled rice with crispy pork and tender pork offal. Also well worth ordering is the crispy pork with sweet soy sauce, which is seasoned wonderfully and has a lovely charcoal-grilled crust.

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. Around 30 minutes from downtown Chiang Mai, this Lanna-style wooden house with a warm, relaxed vibe offers a peaceful escape that feels like dining at a local friend's home. Outdoor seating without air conditioning is ideal for enjoying the cool air. The menu sticks to local classics, from Kaeng Khae and Nam Prik Noom with deep-fried pork liver to Cho Phak Kat. Cooked to order, the dishes are simply presented, allowing the Northern Thai flavours to shine.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This place specialises in Guay Jub with Sai Ua sausage, served in a unique peppery broth, featuring with crispy pork and pork liver. They also offer another delightful dish: fresh spring rolls, topped with sliced omelette and aromatic sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Thai. The two floors at Here Hai are packed with diners every day and it's easy to see why. Good-quality fresh seafood is shipped in directly from Surat Thani and cooked Thai style to showcase bold flavours. As dishes come in large portions designed for sharing, they are ideal for groups. The crab meat with fried rice is cooked using a traditional technique for a pleasantly smoky aroma. Diners can ask for the spiciness to be toned down.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Established in 1986 and now run by the second generation, this spot with its red sign has long been serving comforting beef noodles featuring tender brisket, tendon and meatballs in a light, flavoursome broth. Thai basil rice is a welcome new addition to the concise menu.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats, Thai-Chinese. Entirely focused on top-drawer seafood, this eatery offers a wide range of dishes. The soft-boiled rice with silver pomfret comes with a juicy fillet and fresh, clear soup. The baked mung bean noodles with prawns feature sticky mung bean noodles, underscored by a spicy-sour Thai seafood sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Thai-Chinese. For over 40 years, this heritage restaurant has been serving up delicious Thai, Chinese, and Southern flavours. It's an ideal spot for family gatherings, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu includes Chinese favourites such as nicely moist chicken pae sa flavoured with seasoned soy sauce and paired with morning glory. If you are lucky, try the fried tofu with minced pork and shrimp.

Bib Gourmand • Thai-Chinese. On the Chao Praya by the Rama IV Bridge, this renowned Thai-Chinese spot has been known for reasonably priced flavoursome fare since 1957. Its open-air dining room and wooden terrace set the stage for relaxed meals featuring highlights like grilled giant river prawns with spicy sauce and mini deep-fried crab meat wrapped in tofu skin. Open for lunch, the place extends its hours on weekends. Reach it by boat, or if driving, park in the public space under the bridge.

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. Soontaree Vechanont doesn’t just own “Soontaree’s House” – the singer also performs here nightly. Set on the Ping River in an open-air, Lanna-style building with more tables outside, this charming restaurant can accommodate up to 350 guests. Among the Northern Thai cooking they serve is their signature boneless murrel fish stuffed with pork. It’s a creative dish, with the well-seasoned sausage proving suitably fragrant and spicy.

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. Tucked away in a quiet alley, this wooden Lanna-style restaurant has been around for over a decade. It stands in a garden and has open-air and indoor tables, plus private pavilions. The menu showcases the gamut of Northern Thai cuisine, from fiery dips to herby soups. Two recommendations are the spicy galangal dip with steamed mushrooms for its sweetness and aroma, and the spicy vegetable soup with serpent-head fish: fragrant, earthy and perfectly balanced.

Bib Gourmand • Thai, Southern Thai. Originating from Trang province, the family behind Jaan by Khun Jim brings authentic Southern Thai and Thai-Chinese cuisine to Bangkok. The name, meaning "plate" in Thai, reflects the sentimental significance of serving dishes on vintage plates passed down from the owner's grandmother. In this restaurant housed in a converted two-storey home set in lush greenery, the menu features freshly squeezed coconut milk which beautifully elevates both savoury dishes and desserts. Nam Prik Khayam Kung Sod – a vibrant shrimp chilli dip – is also a great start.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Aunty Paew has been serving intense southern Thai cuisine for over 20 years, using daily fresh ingredients to inform a changing menu. The chef makes her own curry paste, and signature dishes include Kaeng Tai Pla fish curry and stir-fried sataw beans with shrimp and aromatic shrimp paste. The deep-fried frog with turmeric is another standout. Chilled watermelon refreshes the palate after this fiery feast.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This eatery has been serving rice porridge, Vietnamese noodles with pork rib soup, and glass noodles with chicken feet for 30 years. Try adding chả lụa ham and soft-boiled egg for extra indulgence. Eat in to avoid the takeaway queue.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai, Seafood. This unpretentious, open-air eatery is a local gem on the island, offering an affordable opportunity to enjoy simple, local dishes in a knockout beach location. The portions are hearty, modestly priced and lip-smacking. One of the highlights is crab coconut milk curry with shrubby basil — rich with the aroma of curry spices and herbs. If you’re not a fan of shrubby basil, you can ask to substitute it with wild betel leaves instead. Each dish is cooked to order, so there may be a wait, but the upside is that everything arrives freshly made, straight from the kitchen. Alfresco dining in a blissful beach setting.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This iconic family-run eatery serves delectable mango sticky rice made to a recipe that has been handed down the generations for 80 years. Their preparation is masterful: the flavour of the steamed sweetened sticky rice is enhanced by the richness of coconut milk.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Run by the same family for over 20 years, this restaurant is something of a hidden gem for spice-lovers. Their signature dish, jungle curry soup with hand-minced fish, provides suitably lip-smacking flavours using ingredients like red chilli, fingerroot and turkey berry. An outdoor area embraces nature, with curved tree trunk tables and an arboretum. Herbs and spices from the forest are used as seasoning, often with game meats – the succulent stir-fried deer with cumin leaves is a must.

Bib Gourmand • Grills. At this rotisserie stall, they have spent over 50 years perfecting their signature dish of chicken (farmed or domestic) marinated in a secret peppery, herbal blend before it hits the spit. Juicy and tender, with a thin skin, the meat comes served with a sweet chilli dipping sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. The striking green tiles of the facade hint at the warmth of this stylishly refurbished neighbourhood café. Vintage wooden and rattan furnishings foster an inviting, laid-back ambience, for a light yet flavoursome meal – the perfect start to the day. Highlights are the signature kao piak with a soothing, fragrant broth and bánh bôt loc – a lightly chewy roll with a delicious spicy shrimp and minced pork filling. Be prepared to queue during peak hours.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Seating just two to three tables per service (twice a day), this intimate home-style Thai restaurant serves traditional recipes from Nakhon Si Thammarat and Sukhothai, inspired by the chef's grandmother's recipes. The menu changes every two months, typically opening with a Southern Thai appetiser: sour fruits, sweetened shrimp and stirred shrimp paste awaken the palate with umami complexity. Dishes come in a family-sharing format. Be sure to book ahead!

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This locally renowned noodle shop first opened in 1959. The homemade fish dumplings with celery and the umami-rich fish balls invariably attract long queues. Tom Yum and Yen Ta Fo soup options are also available for those seeking something more savoury and full-flavoured.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. This cosy shop bathed in natural light serves 50 to 70 types of authentic Thai desserts. They freshly squeeze coconut milk each morning for rich flavours and aromas. As well as the signature khanom mo kaeng (silky Thai custard), you can sample sweet sorghum, thua paep or piak pun.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. Ochin is named after the owner's favourite Japanese film. This second-generation stall only serves takeaway – a range of homemade deep-fried buns presented on a trolley at the front. Their signature is the crispy bun which contains glass noodles, tasty seasoning and vegetables.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. For over 60 years, this dessert stall has served classic sweetened sticky rice in the traditional way – cooked in bamboo with fresh coconut milk. Choose from original white or aromatic black sticky rice, garnished with taro, black beans, or ginkgo nuts; available in three portion sizes.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats, Rice Dishes. There's a real buzz about this perpetually busy shop that is worth the drive from Bangkok. The delicious chicken is tender and juicy, served simply with sauces that add a real kick. Opening times are limited as they often sell out within a few hours – a testament to the quality.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This shop serves the famous Khao Soi, featuring rich and slightly spicy curry notes. You can choose your preferred meat toppings, and the portions are so delicate that you might find yourself wanting another round!

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. The original owners moved to Isan more than 20 years ago and brought the flavours of Northern Thailand with them. The owner doesn't compromise on quality, ensuring the spices are well utilised to produce bold, balanced and authentic flavours. Khao Soi is the speciality here. For groups, order the Northern Thai set – the homemade sausage won't disappoint. Round off your meal with a refreshing dessert.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles and Congee. This family-run gem serves comforting classics, from aromatic Khao Tom porridge to a secret-recipe Chinese brown soup with various toppings. Weekend specials include braised pork ribs and chicken with fermented soybeans. Adding a twist, they serve sandwiches filled with distinctly flavoured kaya. The perfect balance of casual dining and unique culinary delights is complemented by charming local Thai-Chinese decor.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This grilled pork spot is among the most popular street places in Khon Kaen, and its grilled pork neck with rice is the reason why. The tender, sweet and salty marinated meat perfectly matches the accompanying spicy tamarind sauce. Also recommended are the spicy salad and soup.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles, Small eats. This shop peddles perfect rice dumplings and tapioca balls – a skill passed on by the chef's mother, who plied her trade in Bangkok for 30 years. The tangy tom yum soup with egg is a must and the garlic chive dumplings are exceptional.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. When the chef-owner’s family runs a wholesale seafood business, you can guarantee that her menu will be based on great fish and shellfish dishes, with enough choices to keep everyone happy – and at prices that keep everyone returning. Don’t miss the steamed sea bass with lime, or the stir-fried squid with salted egg. It’s a huge operation with four dining areas, but it’s run with reassuringly calm efficiency. Even with all this space, arrive early on weekends to avoid a long wait.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. The name of the restaurant encourages guests to ‘focus on eating’ at this quaint house with an open-air pavilion overlooking a serene pond. The chefs, veterans in the kitchen, prepare simple Thai dishes and make their own chilli paste from scratch. The regular pounding of the pestle in the mortar reverberates through nature’s own soundtrack. Try the stir-fried crispy fish with aromatic ginger and salted eggs.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. With its shaded garden, recently renovated Kin-Kub-Ei retains its inviting charm, while debuting a casual yet warm new dining area. Chef Tipsuda 'Tubtim' Khanchaijatuwit and Ei prepare southern Thai specialties passed down through the generations, nicely balancing flavours and prioritising quality. The menu ensures affordability without sacrificing taste. The crispy golden-brown local fish with tangy curry paste epitomises their commitment to flavour and tradition.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Renowned for Hainanese-style rice noodles, Kolun.h has been serving locals since 1997. The signature dish comes with rich or clear broth, braised pork, radish and crispy pork belly. Don't miss the peppery-flavoured goat meat in an aromatic herb soup. Expect long queues at peak times.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Thai. At a breezy, rustic location with a laid-back tropical atmosphere and modern edge, this seafood-forward restaurant serves fresh, mostly live catch in à la carte dishes that showcase natural flavours. The daily specials board highlights the day's top picks. Don't miss the aromatic shrimp-coconut soup with melinjo leaves or the turmeric-marinated grilled giant trevally, a rare local fish. Honest, warm service rounds off this relaxed, seaside-style experience.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This family-run stall is inevitably a hit with anyone who eats here, including patrons such as the Thai royal family. The simplicity of the exterior belies the gem of a Thai kitchen hidden inside. Some dishes are unique and feature the family's secret recipes. The stir-fried pork with bird's-eye chilli is tender and bursting with herbal aromas. The signature yellow curry with large prawns and crispy lotus root strikes the perfect blend of sour, spicy and sweet.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Popular with Thai celebrities and prominent politicians, this eatery tucked away in a tiny alley in Thalang deserves its excellent reputation. The chefs source quality local ingredients to produce intensely flavoured dishes that encapsulate the essence of Phuket. Highlights include stir-fried banana stalk with plump shrimps and shrimp paste, and melt-in-your-mouth steamed pork belly with their signature southern Thai budu dipping sauce. Booking and ordering in advance are a must.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Four times in a decade, this Thai restaurant changed locations before finally opening on the chef-owner’s land in Nakhon Pathom. Each time, regulars followed along for its flavoursome local dishes, including some, like stir-fried sesbania with shrimp paste, that cannot be found elsewhere. The current digs are in an open-air pavilion on a country lane with tranquil lotus pond views. Try the stir-fried pork loin with jaew sauce and the spicy mackerel soup with madan fruit.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. The legacy of the original roadside stall lives on, thanks to the owner's granddaughter. Famous for its boiled rice with fish, this humble restaurant also serves a variety of other home-style dishes that are worth trying. The quality is clear in these bold-flavoured plates. The deep-fried meatballs, made to a family recipe, are a great start to the meal and go well with the fresh fish menu, which is cooked in a traditional Phuket style.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. For over four decades this restaurant has been a mainstay for locals. Focusing on freshwater fish and meat, it serves large sharing portions. Seasonal options and occasional fish specials accompany enduring classics, such as the flavourful deep-fried Pla Som, or snakehead fish in flavoursome tom yum soup. The friendly staff are happy to share their recommendations.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. With a limited menu, the kitchen excels in seafood, Thai food and home-made curries with bold, rich flavours. The crab, shrimp, clams and fish are served ultra-fresh at reasonable prices, with rare catches often appearing on the menu. The restaurant doesn't open if the line-catch on that day is not successful. Booking a week in advance is necessary.

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. Food and atmosphere are well-matched at this chill Northern Thai restaurant in Mae Rim. It’s in a two-storey wooden pavilion with regular tables downstairs and cushioned floor seating upstairs; both options offer relaxing rice field views and refreshing breezes. The food here is equally fresh, as well as flavourful and easy on the wallet; the Northern Thai spicy pork salad and the Northern Thai hot and spicy soup with fish and morning glory are recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Krua Luang Ten makes for an unusual setting with its tables arranged on sand-covered floors. Check the whiteboard for the specials, which often feature the catch of the day and seasonal ingredients. The dishes masterfully balance robust Southern Thai flavours for authentic spiciness, and the complimentary vegetables come with tai pla sauce. N.B. The restaurant is closed on the 10th, 20th, and 30th of the month.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Krua Praya showcases Southern Thai, especially Phuket, cuisine. The menu features skilfully prepared dishes with bold flavours and enticing aromas. The standout pork belly dishes include the signature fried pork belly with curry paste and young coconut shoots, delivering a crispy, spicy delight. Alternatively, the Phuket-style stew offers a rich non-spicy option, served in a satisfying gravy. The food is cooked to order, so please expect to wait.

Bib Gourmand • Thai-Chinese. This simple, open-air restaurant serves Thai-Chinese fare. The food is distinctive for its simply cooking techniques yet quality dishes with extra-fresh ingredients and intense flavours. They offer a fantastic range, including several seafood and made-to-order options. Deep-fried chicken thigh with fish sauce and stir-fried spicy seafood are recommended.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. The owner uses premium beef to prepare the broth and toppings. The clear and amber soup, which is cooked with beef for hours, is their secret sauce. For newcomers, it is highly recommended to start with the mixed beef soup, which comes with a variety of beef toppings, including meatballs, different cuts of beef, and beef organs, allowing diners to enjoy all the textures and flavours of beef.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. For over 50 years, Granny Somphit has been crafting flavourful Isan cuisine daily, balancing local spices with Thai herbs. Fresh offal cuts and the signature Isan spicy calf beef salad, seasoned with smoky rice powder for crispness, stand out. The homemade beef sausage and fermented meats are also notable.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. When Mr. Leng left Bangkok’s Chinatown for Khon Kaen in 1984, he brought a secret recipe for Yentafo, or pink noodle soup, and set up shop. His signature dish, which features toothsome noodles, fresh fishballs, shrimp balls and fish wontons, and a tasty broth, continues to delight.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai, Thai-Chinese. This well-established, low-key local favourite serves Southern Thai food in a relaxed setting. As well as seafood and freshwater fish, the Thai-Chinese-leaning menu features several pork dishes and a few with chicken or beef. Bold Southern curries sit alongside wok-fried classics; begin with a spicy yum salad and ask for local fish prepared to your liking. Enquire about the daily specials – the kitchen's confident touch ensures vibrant, comforting fare.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. This gem of a place serves fresh seafood with Thai flavours, featuring house-made curry and chilli paste. Order in advance or call to check availability. Try the stir-fried crab with bird's eye chilli or the non-spicy stir-fried squid with curry powder.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. Located opposite Wat Ket Karam, this humble gem of a shop specialises in khao kriap pak mo – steamed rice dumplings with a truly generous drizzle of fresh coconut milk – and neatly wrapped tapioca dumplings brimming with sweet and savoury pork and peanut.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Simplicity and quality go hand in hand at this hidden gem with an intimate atmosphere. Experience food in its most authentic form thanks to skilfully prepared fresh ingredients. The bold yet nuanced stir-fried black squid ink delivers an intense, textured exploration of the sea's flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Northern Thai. For 30 years, Maan Muang has been offering Northern Thai cuisine in a rustic, wooden Lanna‐style setting. Celebrated for traditional recipes and seasonal dishes, the restaurant serves steaming soups made to order. One highlight is the bamboo shoot with crab paste soup and pork ribs, in which tender bamboo meets umami‐rich flavours. Complimentary fresh vegetables are served to each table. The go-to eatery for anyone craving a true taste of Northern Thailand!

Bib Gourmand • Thai. With just four large communal tables, Magnolia Café is a simple, cosy spot enlivened by bold colours, vintage décor, and chandeliers. The owner-chef’s exquisite personal collection is on display, and she pays meticulous attention to sourcing high-quality ingredients, some from overseas. Their à la carte menu offers tasty, well presented fare from across Thailand. Dishes are distinguished by vivid, gutsy flavours; fried sun-dried squid with peanut sauce and fresh watermelon with desiccated salmon are exemplars. A complimentary pandan pudding is offered, making for a sweet and satisfying finish.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. A serene pond encircled by wooden pavilions is Majchapasuk's tranquil setting. Each spot in the expansive seating area has a soothing atmosphere, ideal for savouring local seafood steeped in over 40 years of Isan culinary heritage. Standout mains showcase Isan tradition with seabass and snakehead fish. Don't miss the crispy deep-fried spring rolls stuffed with minced pork and pork skin. Evening promises optimum weather conditions and idyllic pond views.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Tucked away in the creative hub of Lhong Him Kaw in San Khlang, Meena is a rustic countryside retreat just outside Chiang Mai. The restaurant is best known for its bright five-coloured rice, served with home-style Thai and Northern Thai dishes, including unique creations such as pork ribs with longan curry – a spicy, rich and subtly sweet dish. The open-air setting surrounded by greenery is conducive to slow, relaxed dining.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. Farm-to-table is the philosophy here. The owner grows fruits and vegetables and raises poultry on the farm. They use simple cooking techniques and focus on the ingredients' natural flavours. Although short, the menu perfectly embodies the Isan spirit. The standout dish is Isan thick curry with local fish, which has a tender and juicy texture. Diners can enjoy their meal in an open-air pavilion and even attend a culinary workshop to learn how to cook the signature dish.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Stepping into this two-storey house feels like visiting a friend's welcoming home, with a snug dining room and a plant-filled terrace. Adapted from grandma's Thai and Isan recipes, they offer a variety of menus suited for modern tastes. Don't miss the herb-infused seabass with fermented fish sauce and the unique fermented fish paired with pineapple relish and fresh veggies.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Established for over 35 years, the restaurant has fostered a close connection with local fishermen, ensuring the delivery of a diverse selection of fresh seafood. The open-air main dining area exudes the charm of an old Thai-Chinese eatery. Popular among divers returning from Mu Ko Similan, the intense flavours authentically represent local cuisine, with generously sized dishes. Standouts include the stir-fried crab with lime and the southern curry featuring river snails and wild betel leaves.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Mor Mu Dong takes its name from its owner, Mor, and the Mu Dong Canal, where it is located. Nestled in a mangrove forest, it is housed in a set of rustic pavilions where diners can enjoy seafood and take in the views that change with the tide. In the open kitchen, tanks of live seafood affirm the freshness of the food. Order 3–4 vibrant dishes to share and enjoy the Southern Thai flavours bursting from them.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. For over 120 years, this no-frills kitchen in a wooden house on a main road has been dishing up intensely flavourful, comforting Thai fare. Don't miss the fish cake, made from authentic spotted featherback fish and heavenly spiced, served with the sweet house-special dipping sauce.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Beyond an entrance surrounded by lush foliage, the modest yet inviting space has just a handful of tables, contributing to a relaxed vibe. Dishes are made to order using produce bought at dawn – think rich, fiercely aromatic Southern Thai curries. Spice levels can be dialled down upon request. There's no English menu, but the welcome is warm and the authentic Phuket food speaks for itself, which explains the queues of loyal locals and savvy travellers!

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. One of the best eateries in the area for noodle soup lovers, where the bouncy, MSG-free fish balls are made the traditional way from mackerel, yellowtail amberjack and wolf herring. The tom yum soup stands out; and the fish noodles are perfect for low-carb dieters as they go well with any soup.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai, Thai. At this relaxed spot in a traditional Thai house 20 minutes from town, the cordial service makes you feel like you are at a friend's place. The chef-owner shops each morning, picking mostly local produce; pastes are pounded fresh, and every dish is cooked à la minute so second orders take time. Lon is favoured over chilli paste, and the tamarind-scented kung phat sauce makham perfectly balances sweet and sour.

Bib Gourmand • Grills. This unassuming gem serves around 30-40 juicy, tender charcoal-roasted ducks every day. Order a half or whole bird and savour the wholesome flavour and crispy skin fresh off the stove with either spicy-sour or tamarind sauce for dipping. Grilled chicken is sometimes an option, too.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles, Japanese. Those lucky enough to secure a spot are treated to signature noodle dishes, Shio Soba and Shoyu Tsuke Soba, each with over 30 ingredients. The seasonal noodle and rice bowls use a fermented blend of three types of shoyu for deep umami.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The owners, originally from Suphan Buri, specialise in beef and offal noodles simmered over charcoal in a smoky, clear broth. The mixed beef luak chim features braised beef, beef slices, beef balls and offal tossed with dark soy and a squeeze of fresh lime, creating a distinctive flavour combination.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Merging the owner's fashion design flair and passion for fine fare, One Chun offers a vintage-toned dining experience in a 19C building. Diners still enjoy the family recipes, which have been passed down the generations. Among the specialties is a spicy yet refreshing dish with boiled shrimp and shrimp paste, perfectly balancing the salty and sour notes. Be sure to try "Mu Hong" for its bold flavours and soft, tender pork belly.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This third-generation family-run street food joint has been offering tasty boat noodles for over five decades. Try their pork or beef boat noodles for great value — it comes in a small bowl, so more than one may be needed to truly enjoy it.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Locals flock to Auntie Pleung's for Korat's quintessential noodle dish, Pad Mhee Kratok, served in its purest form – with a soft yet chewy noodle texture that requires no additional seasoning. Her tiny district shop also whips up award-winning spins on Pad Thai and papaya salad.

Bib Gourmand • Seafood. Established in 1967, Pa Ting is now run by the founder’s daughter. This simple, open-air spot overlooking the Don Sak River serves seafood rooted in local tradition. The spicy salad with salted Kulao fish bursts with fragrant Thai herbs, while the southern-style sour curry with fresh Kulao fish is spicy, rich, and boldly flavoured. You can choose the vegetables you prefer — whether it’s taro stem, coconut shoot, or bamboo shoot.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This modest roadside shop is known among locals for its pad thai with prawns, not overly sweet and full of wok aroma. They offer variations with seafood, meat, or other toppings. Indoor seating is air-conditioned, service is friendly, and an English menu is available.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The tempting scent of sizzling pork greets you at this vibrant restaurant by chef Andy Yang. Their signature dish features nicely char-grilled pork loin slices atop savoury Pad Thai. Another recommendation is the Pad Thai with fresh prawns, stir-fried in their shell for sweet, delicious meat. For top-notch Pad Thai and skilled wok-based cooking at a fair price, this is your spot.

Bib Gourmand • Thai-Chinese. This hidden eatery in the 100-year-old Rahaeng Market has been serving traditional Thai-Chinese dishes for over 50 years. With a focus on quality ingredients from the market, their homemade dishes like minced featherback fish and pork in tofu sheets are recommended. Arrive early for spicy stir-fried featherback fish and fried sun-dried snakehead fish.

Bib Gourmand • Congee, Small eats. Don't let the name mislead you – "38" is a nod to the founder's lucky number. This porridge hotspot has been simmering since 1962, serving up porridge in its signature brass pots for three generations. Our favourite is the mixed rice porridge option.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food, Pa Thong Ko. Customers with a sweet tooth and fans of deep-fried goodness line up here from 6am to get their daily fix. The deep-fried Patongko (dough sticks) and salapao are freshly prepared; the crunchy fries are golden-brown. It’s all very tasty; even without the dipping sauces.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. The strength of this shop is its locally sourced free-range meat. The tender braised duck noodles, including neck, wing and thigh, are highlights. Their slow-cooked pork is equally exceptional. Try the duck rice with a smooth blood jelly and five spices.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. With its blue-framed windows, green façade and bright blue door, this welcoming place instantly makes an impression. Inside, raw cement walls and a wooden ceiling make for an industrial yet relaxing vibe. The food, made using fresh ingredients from the northeast, boasts Isan flavours – the som tam and grilled meats are boldly seasoned and well-executed. Generous portions are ideal for sharing, and spice levels can be tailored to your liking.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Standing atop a picturesque hill, the restaurant commands splendid views of the Tapi River winding through a green landscape of palm tree plantations and mountains. They serve tasty Southern Thai fare, including salted duck egg and local river prawns. A spicy seafood sauce and chargrill aroma add depth and complexity to the natural umami of prawns, while a spicy Southern Thai curry soup with pork cartilage features intense peppery and spicy flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This shop serves a Thai samrap (set menu) including jasmine rice cooked with Thai wild almond. The menu has a home-style, local quality, and interesting seasonal options. Each dish boasts complex yet balanced flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This no-frills outlet is popular with locals for its tom yam noodles and homemade pork balls. Another standout is the seafood suki with pork and seafood, full of flavour, with a nicely cooked soft egg and glass noodles.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. The Water Library’s Plu offers outstanding food, a cosy ambience, and great service in an Art Deco-adorned colonial house. Among the beautifully presented authentic pan-Thailand dishes is the signature braised pork belly and soft-boiled eggs in five-spiced soup; the pork belly is tender and juicy, the deep-fried tofu absorbs the aromatic broth, and the soft-boiled eggs only enhance the flavour and texture. Start with one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. On Ayutthaya-Ang Thong Road, near Wat Phanom Yong, the shredded chicken noodle soup needs no extra seasoning. The tom yum broth is perfectly balanced; chicken is tender, while slow-cooked chicken feet are an option. Available for breakfast and lunch only.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. Arrivals and departures are better with a stopover at this simple restaurant in front of Khon Kaen Airport. For more than two decades, Prapai’s friendly owners have been serving authentic Isan dishes made with fresh local ingredients that change with the season. To experience traditional Isan cooking, try deep-fried sour fish or the off-menu Somtum in fermented fish sauce with salted crab.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. The inviting smell of charcoal-grilled sausages wafts from the kitchen at the front of this shophouse restaurant. This family-run business has been serving traditional Isan pork and beef dishes since 1972, in line with their motto: ‘using the best cuts of beef to create flavoursome Isan dishes.’ Dishes like their fried sun-dried beef slices, pork sausages and sliced beef shank in spicy and sour soup live up to the ideal, are reasonably priced and served with a smile. Don't forget to call and reserve the grilled beef tongue in advance.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Prik-Yuak has flourished for 30 years, starting in the bustling Chatuchak markets and now stationed in a spacious, inviting location. The restaurant maintains its beloved approach to home-style Thai cooking. Signature dishes like the Southern Thai pork belly and egg stew showcase tender meat, boiled eggs, and tofu. The venue charms with light, earth-toned decor, a serene garden, and includes a café and boutique shop to enhance the dining experience.

Bib Gourmand • Thai contemporary. This thoughtful take on Thai cuisine unfolds in a casual, wood-accented space. The chef adds a personal touch to seasonal Thai ingredients in three menus: "Special", "Seasonal" and "Classic". We recommend asking about the catch of the day. Start with crispy rice crackers and Thai tomato salsa and pair your meal with Thai draft beer or aromatic alcohol-free drinks. Booking is required, as there are just 14-16 seats per service for each of the three daily rounds.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Basic furnishings and modest dish presentations belie the skill behind their precisely cooked recipes, which are made to order. Specialising in authentic Southern Thai seafood, they source the day's catch for dishes such as red grouper with bitter melon, and simple stir-fried melinjo leaves with fresh prawns. Their home-made curries use local Phang-nga ingredients. The wall of celebrity photos attests to its popularity.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. For over 35 years, the locals have flocked to Roti Chaofa for Thai-Muslim breakfasts, curries and Thai-style chicken biryani. The crisp, golden-brown rotis with a fluffy inner, are nicely salted and enjoyed with sweets or savouries. The tangy, juicy Beef Massaman curry is delightful.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. First-timers should order the plain crispy roti with condensed milk to start. The roti dough here is uniquely made without eggs, but slowly cooked to a crispy-chewy perfection in coconut oil. Choose from 20 toppings.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats. Soft, crispy, non-oily roti emerge from a huge charcoal pan. At this 70-year-old Halal breakfast spot, they're shaped, fried and served in the blink of an eye and served with tender beef or chicken curry. The sweeter roti with banana and egg has no added sugar.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This riverside restaurant is a great place to stop for lunch after paying respects at Wat Choeng Len. Diners gather here for some of the finest fresh produce from the river, including grilled prawns and deep-fried sheatfish. The aromatic green curry with clown featherback fish balls is another highlight. Advance ordering of the huge river prawns – expertly cooked over charcoal – is highly recommended, as they are both popular and in limited supply.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Open since 1995, this family-run restaurant – which blends food and art – is a hidden gem. Spread across four houses, it has a relaxed vibe that gives the impression of dining at a friend's, while painting-filled interiors add a gallery feel. Owner Prunhnee does all the cooking herself; her attention to detail and the complexity of flavours make her dishes memorable. Local seafood is a feature, and their signature mud crab coconut dip or ‘Lhon Pu’ is a must-have.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Depending on your appetite, choose between a small or large portion of clear minced pork soup and perfectly flavoured tom yum broth. Each steaming bowl is topped with homemade fish balls and, if you so fancy, crispy fish skin. The minced pork balls are also a highlight.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Since 2004, Doctor Sai has been serving pan-Thai dishes, including royal fare, following recipes from her mother, Saiyud, a former cooking instructor, in a setting reminiscent of dining at home. Start with an elegant appetiser like fried prawns and peanuts in an egg net, flower dumplings, or deep-fried pork wrapped in egg noodles. By dessert – try the sweet potato in syrup – you’ll guess this home, with its warm service, belongs to a royal from a bygone era.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. If you’re going to order just one thing at this hip little restaurant, make it their omelette – it’s delicious. Samlor means ‘tricycle’ in Thai and a traditional one hangs outside this cosy corner spot. Inside, the distressed walls and music add to the loft-style vibe, while the service team is a friendly and helpful band. From the open kitchen comes assorted, elevated Thai cuisine inspired by local street food. They also have an à la carte, which includes a cut and catch of the day; check with the chef for what’s available.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This halal kitchen next to the Ping River is one for beef fans. With indoor and outdoor dining, the big outdoor kitchen cooks a creative à la carte menu with balanced flavours. The beef fat rice topped with egg yolk has a smoky flavour. The spicy Thai soup with beef shank is packed with spice aroma.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. This homely spot celebrates seldom-seen Phetchaburi traditions, favouring meat over fish and using prime local produce in time-honoured recipes. The palm-shoot curry, simmered in freshly pressed coconut milk and crowned with smoky grilled pork, whispers sweetness beneath its mellow heat. River prawn, flash-fried and dusted with sea salt, stays springy yet yielding, its coriander-garlic crunch begging for jasmine rice. An honest taste of central Thailand.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. Established in 1977 and a local favourite at Thongkam Market, this spot offers tasty and affordable khanom chin (fresh rice vermicelli) with various curries. Try the nam lo, a mix of spicy pork and chicken curry sauces. If noodles aren’t your thing, swap them for rice. Not only are the street food dishes here delicious, but they’re great value too – especially when you consider that side vegetables are unlimited.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. With more than 40 years of history, this eatery is now run by the second generation. Locals still frequent it for delicious, budget-friendly meals and cheerful service. The highlights here are the lap dishes and the spicy clear soup with beef and beef offal.

Bib Gourmand • Isan. Chef-owner Jinda is a specialist in somtum dishes. She first plied her trade back in 1974 in the local university before moving downtown. The Isan-style spicy fish maw with bamboo shoot salad has a nice balance of herbs and its powerful aroma is punctuated by the intensity of the Tiliacora juice. The signature, somtum with crispy catfish, dispenses an impressive tang. Whether you like it spicy or mild, they’ll make it just right for you.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food, Seafood. A neighbourhood original serving for over three decades, this humble cart is famed for its steamed crabs and prawns on glass noodles. The seafood is impeccably fresh, the noodles silky yet springy, and the flavours come alive when you stir in the rich juices beneath. Prices remain wallet-friendly and portions generous. Easily reached from Wongwian Yai BTS, just follow the tempting aromas through the alley.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Chef-owner Anuwat Thiemkreangkrai's 12-year-old stall stands out with its fresh, light MSG-free seafood dishes. His passion shines through in stir-fries that bring out the natural essence of the fresh catch, such as celery with seabass and the beautifully balanced seafood with Thai basil.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. Chef Sriruen handcrafts exceptional Pad Thai, just as she has done for over 30 years. Originally from Phitsanulok, she serves noodles notable for their bold flavour, imparted by duck eggs. Savour this tasty dish with either thin rice or glass noodles.

Bib Gourmand • European Contemporary. The menu changes every month in this intriguing restaurant. Regular options range from home-made pastas to a signature seafood dish, plus specials that are cleverly curated to showcase Chef Tom's latest culinary creations. The chef artfully prepares his dishes, blending quality ingredients to tantalise the taste buds. And thanks to the ever-changing selection of handpicked wines, there's always something different to sip with your meal.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles, Small eats. This popular old town stand sells legendary braised beef noodles soup; choose from multiple juicy, slow-cooked cuts like cheek, tongue, tendon, shoulder and shank – or go for the mixed beef option. The aromatic and salty broth is what makes this version stand out from the crowd, delivering a wonderful mellow flavour. The meatballs are well worth ordering too, offering a rich, meaty taste and accompanied by more broth.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Hidden in the shadow of skyscrapers is this gem of a restaurant, which got its start serving family recipes, but now offers an array of Thai cuisine from Chiang Mai to Hat Yai. It is a great place to sample delicious Thai cooking from every region on the same table. Quality ingredients are sourced locally and turned into dishes like the recommended Phuket stir-fried pork belly with shrimp paste and the Chiang Mai Combo, a Northern Thai-style appetiser plate.

Bib Gourmand • Thai-Chinese, Small eats. This well-loved little shop has been passed down the generations for over a century. They specialise in offal, and their signature dish showcases stewed pig's brain, which is prepared fresh each morning by octogenarian owner Sudjit Suranan. Try the starter of Chinese liver sausage, too.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Having grown up working in his family's food business, Chef Buriphat always wanted to do something special with their recipes. Over the last few years, he has realised that vision, impressing diners with his honest interpretation of traditional Southern Thai-Peranakan cuisine. Check out the delicious stir-fried pork belly with herbs and sweet dark soy sauce, and be sure to try the pork rib soup with tofu and salted fish.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. Thien Duong is a showcase of Vietnamese classical design; the antique artworks, mustard-coloured walls, rose-pink granite tables, shiny black floor tiles and exposed ceiling are an interior design lover’s paradise. The menu of Vietnamese dishes includes plenty of clean and fresh-tasting vegetables, with one eye often on health and wellness. The grilled lamb rack with mint-tamarind sauce is worth ordering, delivering a great balance of flavours.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. ‘Toh-daeng’ translates as ‘red dining table’ – and you will find one here, running the length of the kitchen wing at this renovated manor house which serves as a window into Phuket’s past. The restaurant is surrounded by farmland, where they grow ingredients including mulberry and coconut. Well-balanced dishes allow the natural flavours of the produce to shine; rambutan red curry with grilled pork neck is a highlight, with the rambutan adding a natural sweetness.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Honouring Phuket town classics beneath the leafy canopy of an old mayom tree, this humble eatery focus on quality. From the short menu, we recommend the local fish, deep fried and topped with a fragrant curry paste. A nice spot for authentic local cuisine.

Bib Gourmand • Southern Thai. Since opening its doors in 1995, the chef-owner has consistently cooked flavoursome, well presented southern fare with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and authentic recipes. Daily deliveries of fresh seafood and organic produce come from nearby farms. Savour dishes like stir-fried pork with shrimp paste and bitter bean or curry with crab legs and betel leaves. While the menu may be concise, each dish reflects the chef's passion. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. For decades, this spot has been drawing in loyal fans with its tue ka ko – crispy deep-fried taro with sweet chilli sauce and peanuts. Light, fresh and never greasy, each batch is made to order. The fried tofu is also worth trying. Open only until they sell out, so come early.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. U-Khao, or ‘land of plenty’, has two dining areas smartly decorated in white and blue. The menu serves up the nostalgic flavours of the owner’s childhood, as it’s based on her mother’s Thai recipes. They use traditional cooking methods presented with a modern aesthetic. The stir-fried stinky vegetables with shrimp is worth trying for its unique flavor. The grilled shrimp relish with vegetables is also highly recommended for its spicy kick and smoky aroma.

Bib Gourmand • Small eats, Thai-Chinese. For six decades, this family-run business has been braising tender goose with aromatic spices. The menu counts just two items but several size options. The goose has soft meat and thin skin; intestines are available on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This modest favourite draws queues, but your patience will be rewarded! The phak bung tai rao – crispy shrimp, morning glory and fine-sliced pork skin tossed in a sweet-tangy sauce – is superb with rice noodles. Generous portions and wallet-friendly prices make it a great value.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Opened as a jewellery export business in 1999, Abaseria evolved into a café and is now a welcoming restaurant. A nostalgic atmosphere reigns in the space, which is decorated with local crafts and souvenirs – you feel like you're at a distant relative's. Home-cooked dishes such as sinigang pasayan, fish with tofu in black bean sauce, and Humba stew are made for sharing. Popular desserts include choco durian and mango float, and the coffee is a highlight.

Bib Gourmand • Spanish. Led by chef Fernando Alcalá Garaizábal of Kava in Marbella, Bolero charms with its Spanish soul. The largely Spanish menu is laced with Mediterranean notes and the odd global influence – built for sharing, generous portions make for great value. Start with a cocktail from the extensive list. Dishes such as coal-grilled Ibérico presa and ribeye empanadas impress, but the highlight is a decadent, molten-centred cheesecake – an award-winner in Spain.

Bib Gourmand • Indian, Asian. Exposed brick, bright colours and warm lighting make this a vibrant and inviting setting. The menu hones in on North Indian cuisine – rich, spiced and hearty fare. Ranging from traditional snacks to a variety of curries, dishes include butter chicken, dal makhani and the standout mutton bhuna masala, which is slow cooked to tender perfection. Don't miss the naan baked in a tandoor for a chewy texture and smoky aroma that complements the flavours beautifully.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Housed in a listed 1930s building, this stylish institution is frequented by politicians and dignitaries. The elegant interiors sport tiled floors, rattan chairs and a striking decor, with a lush garden and koi pond outside. The cuisine reflects the length and breadth of the Philippines, albeit with a penchant for southern Mindanao. Highlights include the crisp ukoy and richly spiced piyanggang manok. They also have a bar, café and private rooms.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Located on a corner of BGC, this restaurant brings typical Filipino flavours into a modern setting. The menu includes a well-balanced selection of meat, seafood and vegetable dishes, but their signature dish is cochinillo (hence "Cochi"). This roasted suckling pig marinated in 12 herbs and spices and slow cooked for 3 hours is served in generous portions – a festive, shareable dish that comes with a little tableside theatre for good measure.

Bib Gourmand • Asian. Designed by a Filipino architect, this stylish destination pairs grey tones with turquoise accents and club beats for a modern, casual feel. CUR8, is a nod to the chef behind the concept – where Asian cuisine is reimagined with bold style. Featuring clear categories, from Best Seller to Chef's Recommendation and Healthy Option, the menu is approachable. The lunch set, showcasing various dishes as small portions, is a fantastic deal.

Bib Gourmand • Vietnamese. This modest, family-style eatery in Taguig brings the charm of Hanoi to Manila with a menu of Vietnamese favourites. Expect comforting bowls of phở gà, a crisp nem rán appetiser and fragrant rice noodles with grilled pork. There aren't any desserts, but the bánh mì makes for a speedy, satisfying takeaway. Its name, an affectionate nod to Vietnam's capital, reflects the warmth and soul you will relish in every bite. Simple, sincere and quietly memorable.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. For 60 years, this market-side eatery has been loved for one thing: linarang, a sour fish soup made with fresh porcupine fish simmered over wood fire. The broth is tangy, rich and slightly oily, with tender fish and deep flavour. Enjoy it on rice before noon when it's at its freshest.

Bib Gourmand • Fusion. Channelling years spent in Mexico – where she fell in love with the bold flavours, local traditions and spontaneity of street food – chef Cara Davis's cuisine has evolved from the structured world of haute cuisine. She now presents a freer, more multicultural and emotionally driven style in a menu that blends Latin American and Asian influences with finesse. Set in a space designed by her brother, Hálong brings a fresh perspective to Makati's dining scene.

Bib Gourmand • Asian, Creative. With warm lighting, rattan chandeliers and wooden furnishings, this street-side restaurant offers a warm welcome. The chef, inspired by her mother's recipes and time working at a Chinese restaurant in Singapore, serves nuanced dishes from China, the Philippines, Taiwan and Japan. Seasonal specials appear often, so do ask. The cuapao ni cristina – fluffy buns with tender pork, crispy pig skin, peanuts and coriander – is a heartfelt, flavour-packed signature.

Bib Gourmand • Middle Eastern. Chef Sam Rohana brings a warm taste of the Middle East to an intimate sunlit spot in a cosmopolitan neighbourhood. The compact space features colourful low tables and sofas, setting the tone for a relaxed, communal meal. Begin with rich hummus and soft house-made pita before diving into tender lamb dishes. Don't skip dessert: the muhallebi melts on the tongue. Authentic, heartfelt and crafted in a tiny kitchen, every dish here is made with genuine care.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Discreetly situated on a quiet side street, Lampara welcomes diners with its softly glowing sign and bistro charm. The mood inside, and out on the terrace, is relaxed and inviting. Ingredient-led dishes showcase classic French techniques infused with Filipino touches. Think: octopus, soft shell crab or tofu rice cups. The desserts, both artful and indulgent, are not to be missed! Cordial service completes this quietly confident neo-Filipino gem.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino, Contemporary. Perched high above Cebu amid lush jungle, this open-sided terrace restaurant commands views as far as the sea. With stone floors, faux-rattan chairs and warm lighting, the setting feels secluded yet welcoming. A nearby courtyard café adds charm. The well-drilled team serves refined Filipino fare with regional soul. Shrimp kinilaw with kimchi, chicken skin nachos and the signature Lasa crispy pata are vibrant updates on tradition – all well worth trying.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. This casual space featuring glass walls, concrete and soaring ceilings has a simple yet sophisticated modern feel. The buzzing open kitchen sets the stage for bold Mexican flavours. Try the Wagyu beef cheeks and chorizo campechano tacos with house-made tortillas crafted from a blend of Mexican corn types. Vibrant ceviche with leche de tigre and seafood tostadas round out a menu rooted in tradition yet full of personality.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Manam's flagship restaurant in Ayala Triangle elevates the brand with its minimalist lines, vibrant Filipino pop art and airy, polished aesthetic. It feels welcoming despite its spaciousness. The extensive menu fetes Filipino flavours – try the Tagalog beef cheeks with calamansi, the spatchcock chicken inasal or the standout lechon manok with tutong longganisa rice with a playful choice of gravy: Red Horse beer or Sarsi.

Bib Gourmand • Street Food. This modest roadside eatery serves authentic Ilocano comfort food. The place uses a turo-turo style of service, where diners pick their dishes from the counter before they’re brought to the table. Presented with a rich flavour, home-style classics such as kilawin, sweet pork skewers, pinakbet and the standout laing: taro leaves simmered in coconut milk pairs well with rice. Check their social media for daily specials.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Woven tablecloths and ethnic-inspired music set the tone in this cosy place. Expect warm hospitality and classic Southern Mindanao cuisine, which uses spices, acidity and roasted coconut for rich, intense flavours, for example the generously sized tiyula itum stew with beef simmered in coconut broth for a hint of acidity and smoky aroma. The Dulang – an exquisite platter of seven dishes in tasting portions – provides an excellent and varied introduction.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino. Since 2023, this unpretentious restaurant has been winning fans with Filipino, family-style fare crafted with clear devotion. Wooden tables and photo-lined walls of classic dishes make for a casual feel. Try the signature stewed beef noodle soup, pares batchoy, the refreshingly tangy sinigang na hipon (tamarind broth with prawns), or seared stuffed bangus, a delicate milkfish dish. Staff are friendly, and an illustrated menu makes sharing effortless.

Bib Gourmand • Noodles. This counter in the food market serves its delicious signature ribbon-like noodles featuring a chewy and elastic feature. The chef draws on her experience in a Chinese restaurant in New York City to create a menu of Chinese favourites. The pork and shrimp wontons are crisp, with fragrant pork and spicy shrimp.

Bib Gourmand • Filipino, Contemporary. Lunchtime sees this modest restaurant packed to the rafters. Marbled tiles, rattan lamps, simple wooden tables and casual seating make for a laid-back vibe. Green-accented walls and screen dividers offer structure, but the focus is firmly on flavour over form. Generous sharing portions of Filipino staples such as kinilaw and lechon manok are crowd-pleasers, while the turon a la mode is a sweet final flourish. Unfussy, authentic and excellent value.

Bib Gourmand • Thai. Inspired by the chef's travels, this relaxed restaurant transports you to Thailand with its modern take on Thai favourites. The minimalist setting with playful table and menu designs makes for a casual vibe. Classic dishes include papaya salad, pad thai and tom yum. Curry fans can enjoy the beef short rib or crab curries. The latter uses local crab, tender eggs and a touch of coconut milk. Order the mango sticky rice for a sweet, tangy end to the meal.

Bib Gourmand • Mexican. The playful French bulldog logo hints at the fusion inside this modern monochromatic taquería, where the soul of Mexico meets French culinary flair. The chef reimagines tacos through a Gallic lens, serving creations such as foie gras, steak frites and lamb bourguignon alongside beloved classics. It's an original take on tradition, served in a sleek, casual space in which the boundaries of taco culture are deliciously redrawn with confident charm.

Bib Gourmand • European Contemporary. At this stylish spot led by a globe-trotting British chef, gourmet European cuisine meets tropical-island warmth. The menu focuses on pork – confit pork belly is a signature dish – and the small plates are conducive to sharing. European recipes are reworked with modern techniques for extra finesse. The wood-and-brick interior has cosy pub charm, from the terrace to the kitchen counter and the sleek, sociable bar.

Bib Gourmand • Ramen, Japanese. Inside The Alley at Karrivin, this stylish ramen shop shares premises with a café, making it a good bet for noodle and coffee enthusiasts alike. A young internationally trained chef brings his love of Japan to the table – eg Billy's pork rib ramen in a rich pork bone broth, offering an endless depth of flavour. The three types of noodles on the menu are homemade. Order a side of deliciously smoky edamame grilled with sesame oil. Curved wood creates a wave-like ceiling in the modern interior.

Bib Gourmand • Asian Contemporary. This understated, centrally located eatery is buzzing! Behind an unassuming entrance, the neat space has butcher-tiled walls, exposed ceilings and wooden bistro-style tables. Your Local has its finger on the pulse, serving easy-going, wallet-friendly gastronomy including dishes that are ideal for sharing. Try the miso tuna tartare with gochujang and calamansi and the meltingly tender braised lamb shoulder with soy anise sauce – both packed with flavour.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. This spacious family-run restaurant welcomed its first diners in 1955. Today, the third generation is at the helm of what has become a firm favourite with locals, who flock to the large counter to choose their favourite mezze, soups and hot dishes. You can start with the lentil soup made with plenty of vegetables and a robust broth, follow that with some delicately presented spinach with silky yoghurt and fresh mint, and finish off with a delicious sweet and creamy rice pudding. The hearty stews, made in time-honoured tradition, reflect the establishment's long culinary heritage. All these authentic treats are freshly prepared, so once they're gone, they're gone.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. The area around Lake Bafa is popular on account of its ruins and unusual hiking trails. Be sure to include in your itinerary this little guesthouse, somewhat tucked away in the greenery (just be warned that the paths that lead here can get surprisingly narrow). The splendour of the setting is complemented by the hostess in her generous culinary offerings. Vegetables from her own farm, fish from the lake, beef from neighbouring farmers: she works with top-quality produce. She serves down-to-earth dishes such as barbecued sea bass with onion, tomato, pepper and wintercress. Fried aubergine really comes into its own in a yoghurt salad with a fiery chilli dressing. At Agora Panisyon, the heartwarming fare lets the ingredients speak for themselves.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. For juicy kebabs straight from the grill, this is the place to be. You can watch the chefs cooking at the back of the restaurant, which embodies an appealing blend of industrial chic and modern design, in one of Istanbul’s business districts. The cuisine is centred on premium ingredients and honest, straightforward cooking: succulent lamb skewers dusted with chilli flakes, served alongside flatbread and fresh salad, followed by grilled lamb chops with a crispy fat cap, delicately seasoned with salt and thyme. This is a meat lover's dream, especially since the value for money is exceptional. Not to be missed!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. A narrow street leads you to this somewhat hidden gem. The waterside setting is a draw in itself, but the main attractions are the barbecue and tandoori oven. With a sure hand, the chefs flame-grill aubergine, for example, and then season it with chilli and five-spice powder. Their marinated lamb and beef are cooked to juicy perfection, generously spiced and served with lavash bread that has been briefly crisped up on the barbecue. The various mezze, salads and desserts such as halva stay true to tradition. And for this price point, the value is fantastic!

Bib Gourmand • Farm to table, Traditional Cuisine. Welcome to the home of the Yazgan family, which they have transformed into a boutique hotel with a restaurant. Today, the third generation is at the helm, bringing their own vision to the establishment. At the charming Aravan Evi, the kitchen garden is the primary source of produce, and diners are occasionally invited to stroll through it – it's a passion that the chefs are happy to share. Whether freshly picked, pickled or cooked in the wood-fired oven, vegetables and fruit are elevated here in remarkable ways, with an emphasis on punchy and tangy flavours. Take the dried apricots stuffed with nuts cooked in grape molasses, accompanied by a candied nut bonbon and warm halva for body. This is a captivating family story that celebrates tradition and terroir, expressed through a distinctive set menu.

Bib Gourmand • Italian, Pizza. With its red-and-white check tablecloths, photographs and paintings from Italy, vintage decor and a terrace overlooking the pebble beach, this trattoria is the embodiment of Mediterranean charm. The menu features an extensive range of tempting traditional dishes. The Neapolitan-style pizzas and creamy risotto with super-fresh seafood are especially popular. There are also 12 different dishes with house-made pasta to choose from. This generosity is just one example of why Arka has been a Bodrum favourite for so long – and rightfully so!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. Hostess Aslıhan's friendly smile and warm welcome will make you feel right at home in this quintessentially Anatolian stone house. The restaurant's historical charm is complemented by the Mediterranean feel of the courtyard terrace. The extensive menu primarily features hot and cold appetisers with a traditional Turkish twist. Think fish soup with freshly caught sea bream, prawns and squid. Or perhaps a succulent kokoreç served with hummus, and a velvety fava bean purée seasoned with lemon and dill… These dishes brimming with flavour are perfect for sharing with friends in a casual setting.

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Traditional Cuisine, Farm to table. With its bohemian-style garden where you can dine amid herbs and vegetables, the centrally positioned building draped in grapevines, and the authentic handmade porcelain, this restaurant has a distinct character. Inside, all kinds of fragrant delights are on display, ready for you to select. Freshly baked pumpkin pie with yoghurt, fried courgette flower with ricotta and fresh herbs, or traditional manti stuffed with yoghurt and chilli oil – these generous sharing dishes are simply irresistible! Grown on site, the produce is second to none. That, in combination with the female chefs' home-style cooking, is what sets this place apart. Reservations are required for evening dining – no children allowed.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. Kemeralti, a maze of streets with a picturesque square, is the heart of Izmir. Aysa, a restaurant full of character, is right at home in this idyllic location. The cold and hot buffet offers a wealth of Bosnian and Ottoman delicacies that you can load up on to your heart's content. For instance, you might start with marinated grape leaves stuffed with a delicious filling of rice and various spices, continue with some lamb stew and finish with some wonderfully moist baklava. NB: Reservations are not accepted, so be sure to arrive in good time!

Bib Gourmand (Green Star) • Traditional Cuisine, Country cooking. The valley spreads before you with wild flowers, apricot and plum trees and rugged rocks – with such a breathtaking view, securing a table on the terrace of this traditional house is a must. Ayşe and Adem Koçdemir have an intimate relationship with their terroir and work almost exclusively with local ingredients, including produce from their own garden. Dishes are presented on wonderful terracotta tableware: delicacies such as a tomato broth with peppers and olive oil that tastes both sweet and subtly confit, accompanied by cracked bulgur and fantastic Turkish bread. Then there are the stuffed vine leaves with aromatic rice and peppers… The wood-fired oven is expertly deployed to create this robust yet delicate cuisine. Only a single set menu is available, and booking ahead is essential to experience this homage to Cappadocia.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. "Authentic" and "welcoming" are two words that sum up what Bağarası is all about. This is the place to come to enjoy delicious food in a relaxed setting. At the display counter, you can order some of the fragrant mezze from a selection that changes regularly. Their take on traditional manti is not to be missed: crispy deep-fried filo pastry, a yoghurt cream and ragout generously seasoned with oregano and mint. Do leave room for dessert, because you absolutely must try the sweet artichoke confit with milk ice cream – a house speciality. It is a nice touch that you can choose your portion sizes, so you can add one more little plate and sample all of these delicious treats. It's well worth it!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. Take a seat on the terrace of this open-air restaurant, among the mandarin and lemon trees, and prepare yourself for some Anatolian generosity. The mezze- and kebab-style dishes are perfect for sharing with friends or for a romantic dinner for two. Tempting options on the menu include roasted aubergine stuffed with meat seasoned with paprika and a yoghurt dressing, and flatbread with a lamb brochette, lamb pastrami, Golot cheese and an onion salad with sumac and fresh herbs. Discover a world of rich flavours that won't break the bank!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. There is a rustic charm about this place that is reflected in the food. At the counter, there is an impressive selection of mezze and hot dishes that you can also order straight away. Market-fresh Turkish cuisine is prepared with great passion and respect for tradition. Take, for example, the green beans cooked in a tomato sauce with onion and smoked aubergine, served with well-seasoned yoghurt, or the lamb stew with a light stock made from tomato, garlic and pepper, enhanced with cumin and coriander. At Beğendik Abi you are guaranteed a delicious and affordable dining experience. The queue that often forms at the door doesn't lie.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Sharing. Some restaurants just feel right from the moment you walk in, and Casius Antioch Kitchen is one of them. Whether you come to this trendy establishment for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can expect a warm welcome and attentive service. The rich dishes are traditional with a fresh twist; many are baked in the brick oven. Examples include thin, crisp lahmacun with lightly spiced minced meat, tomato and parsley, as well as roasted pepper with crushed walnuts, onion and pomegranate molasses. Expect a feast of flavours, an impressive menu and great value for money.

Bib Gourmand • Mediterranean Cuisine. A stroll through the trendy Çukurcuma neighbourhood, which is famous for its antique shops, should certainly include a meal at Cuma. At this cosy establishment – be sure to secure a spot on the front terrace – you can tuck into a traditional Turkish breakfast or Mediterranean-style lunch or dinner. Seasonal ingredients are showcased brilliantly in tapas such as sea bass ceviche, generously topped pizzettas, aromatic pasta dishes etc. The chef places special emphasis on vegetarian dishes, such as mushroom skewers and halloumi cheese with braised onion, pomegranate and deep-fried polenta. Everyone is sure to find something to their liking here, and at great value for money!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Contemporary. Famed local chef Somer Sivrioğlu has assembled a talented team at EFENDY, a vibrant restaurant with a warm Middle Eastern-inspired ambiance, located slightly outside the main tourist area. Here, traditional Anatolian cuisine is reimagined with a twist. Ancient techniques meet open-fire cooking and fresh ideas to create dishes that deliver real pleasure. Creamy hummus is elevated with just the right amount of tahini and herb-infused olive oil, and served with deep-fried chickpeas and capers. Be sure to sample the lahmacun with its wonderful aromas from the wood-fired oven. A delightful juxtaposition of old and new – accompanied by outstanding cocktails.

Bib Gourmand • Contemporary, Turkish. Foxy takes its name from the musky flavour of the Concord grape, though it also suits the casual, playful spirit of this spot – where you might notice the house cat wandering around. Indeed, at Foxy, chef Maksut Aşkar of the MICHELIN-starred Neolokal, and wine specialist Levon Bağış have appointed a team that understands their philosophy. Sample wonderful Turkish wines – from natural wines to classic appellations – and savour a fresh, modern and sophisticated take on traditional local cuisine. For instance, cured tuna fillet, lightly salted and served raw, is accompanied by julienned red onion, pickled spring onion and beetroot, creating a powerful contrast. Keep in mind that the menu is more extensive in the evening than at lunchtime.

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine. Happena transports your taste buds back to the era of the Hittites, who founded an empire in Anatolia thousands of years ago. Drawing inspiration from ancient texts, the chefs bring this distant past vividly to life on your plate. Expect traditional spices, crisp grilled meats and tender cuts, such as lamb cooked over a wood fire until beautifully caramelised, served with pita bread, a honey and ginger sauce, and fermented pickles and grapes. The extensive menu is simply wonderful, as is the setting. Set on higher ground, this restaurant is part of the Kelebek Special Cave Hotel and brims with enchanting traditional charm. From the terraces, the views over Göreme are truly breathtaking – a journey through time you won't soon forget.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Mediterranean Cuisine. Intensely flavoursome taramasalata with toasted bread, crispy filo pastry stuffed with beef alongside a sweet tomato sauce for dipping, sea bass elevated by a spicy mustard-based remoulade – the menu boasts an impressive array of mezze, dishes for sharing and other traditional specialities that prove utterly irresistible. The chef uses top-quality ingredients and avoids unnecessary complexity. His dishes pack a punch, with subtle Greek influences appearing throughout. This bustling establishment with its quiet terrace and harbourside location (perfect for a pre- or postprandial stroll) has earned its popularity. Delicious food and great value for money!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. Each morning, Kemal Özçakar makes his morning rounds to farms in the region to source fresh vegetables, fruit and other wonderful produce. What follows is a carefully crafted surprise menu that never disappoints. Apparent simplicity belies deep and generous flavours: from a velvety fava bean purée with dill and lemon as a mezze, to crisp-fried lamb sweetbreads finished with a touch of oregano, thyme and garlic. Precise cooking meets outstanding seasoning. This centuries-old house with elegant ceilings and an authentic atmosphere is packed with locals every day – a clear sign of quality.

Bib Gourmand • International. The Domaine Lucien Arkas vineyards are well worth a visit. Take some time to stroll among the vines – highly romantic if you have that special someone by your side. The same romantic feeling prevails whether you dine outdoors overlooking the vineyard or indoors with a view of the wine cellar beneath you (bottles are for sale at the entrance). The chef tempts you with unfussy Mediterranean dishes that perfectly complement the quality wines produced here. Charcoal-grilled leg of lamb with a bold lamb jus enriched with mustard, then a wonderfully sweet strawberry magnolia for dessert – honest flavours are paramount, both in the glass and on the plate.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. The long queue of locals that forms before opening time speaks volumes – this bustling place is hugely popular. So, be sure to arrive on time and you will be handsomely rewarded with a generous menu featuring expertly prepared Turkish classics. Options include an intense lahmacun with lamb, black Urfa chilli and fresh herbs, a salad that balances spicy, zesty and sweet nuances, and dolmasi with a filling of lamb, beef, rice and herbs. Deciding will not be easy, but you are bound to leave sated thanks to the outstanding value for money. A cherished spot that has truly earned its praise!

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Mediterranean Cuisine. In this tranquil fishing village, you stroll along a street lined with all kinds of restaurants, yet this stone house, with its rather rustic decor and lovely waterside terrace, immediately catches your eye. A glance at the display counter, brimming with a vibrant array of mezze, is enough to draw in any foodie. Sea bass in olive oil, accented with just the right amount of vinegar and peppercorns, that melts in your mouth, is served alongside grilled aubergine and peppers with a delicate balance of sweet and heat: utterly blissful. You can also choose from a variety of fish, prepared simply but served exceptionally fresh. Mandalya is the place to be for house-made, authentic cuisine at fantastic value for money.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Mediterranean Cuisine. Mezegi boasts an alluring location in Göcek marina, overlooking the yachts and with the contours of the surrounding mountains visible in the distance. This chic Mediterranean restaurant welcomes diners from morning until evening and serves an array of tempting dishes. Expect colourful, aromatic creations ranging from both classic and more original mezze to traditional specialities such as hünkâr beğendi and fodula. A house favourite features squid and vegetables such as courgette and pepper tempura – crisp on the outside, tender within – accompanied by a subtle garlic-based sauce. This is an ideal spot for relaxed dining, and the value for money is excellent.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. At this down-to-earth eatery, conviviality and honest cooking set the tone. You can see the chefs prepare everything from scratch in the open kitchen, from the brioche to the dressings, which is instantly reassuring. Dishes might include beans simmered in a creamy meat jus, served with yoghurt and yellow pepper, topped with succulent roast beef, or a street food-style sandwich filled with grilled mackerel, spiced mayonnaise and beetroot (also available to take away). There are so many options! This is easygoing dining with personality, at prices that are hard to beat.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. Head to the neighbourhood of upmarket Bağdat Avenue and experience the convivial and friendly atmosphere of Nazende Cadde. This is a charming place, in which to share all kinds of delicacies with friends. The tempting menu changes daily to take advantage of the best market offerings and is simply irresistible. The chefs put their heart and soul into every creation and have a few signature dishes up their sleeves, including succulent, boldly spiced grilled squid rings. They like working with offal, pairing tenderly cooked lamb brains with fresh parsley, diced tomatoes, olive oil and lemon. At this lively establishment, generosity comes from the heart. A real gem!

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking, Turkish. Yes, this is indeed an old Greek house from the 19C, and what a beauty it is! The striking façade with its distinctive traditional balcony, the arcaded courtyard adorned with old frescoes and the open dining area under a canopy of vine leaves make you feel as though you've wandered onto a 1970s film set. Brimming with charm, this is also a true family-run establishment – several members of the Özturk family were even born within these walls. In the kitchen, the matriarch prepares dishes that blend Turkish tradition with Greek influences. A crisp seasonal salad with just enough vinegar and the gentle sweetness of tomato, succulent sac tava, rich baklava with candied nuts… Every bite is a joy. Consider booking an overnight stay in one of the guestrooms – Old Greek House is a perfect base for discovering the region.

Bib Gourmand • Grills, Turkish. The barbecue and wood-fired oven will catch your eye as soon as you enter this congenial establishment, which has a cosy terrace in the lane to the rear. The chef expertly tames the open fire to cook delicious dishes, such as kebab and grilled dry-aged steak. The mixed grill is a signature dish here: a variety of juicy meats, oven-fresh bread and a judicious sprinkle of sumac. This restaurant offers great value for the money, serving delicious food without pretensions.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. Take the stairs to the first floor above the Egyptian bazaar and marvel at the characteristically Turkish decor with its blue mosaics on the walls and its historical cachet. In addition to the main dining space, there are two more private rooms if you would prefer a more intimate setting. The chef resolutely sticks to traditional Turkish dishes: think fragrant dolmas stuffed with rice, berries, pine nuts and a dash of vinegar, or courgette flower filled with feta, deep-fried and paired with a rich and spicy yoghurt dip, to name but a few. This perennial favourite never disappoints!

Bib Gourmand • Seafood, Grills. The tail fins of large fish hanging as centrepieces in this charming family-run establishment are a good indication of the kind of food to expect. The sea, which you can see shimmering nearby, is the main source of produce. The uncle goes out fishing, the father takes his place behind the grill, the mother creates sumptuous mezze dishes, and the son provides a warm reception. You might like to start your meal with yoghurt seasoned with red chilli marinated in oil, before moving on to crispy deep-fried calamari and succulent grilled sea bass. A heartwarming place, where you can savour authentic cuisine without breaking the bank.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. Parvus Kalamış is a modest little establishment with just a handful of tables that see a steady stream of diners throughout the day. The chefs describe their cuisine as simple and delicious, and we can only agree. Think ravioli generously stuffed with ricotta and broccoli, bathed in a sage-infused butter sauce, or perfectly medium-rare lamb fillet served with bulgur risotto and carrot purée laced with Middle Eastern spices. This fusion of Turkish and Mediterranean culinary traditions delivers deep, indulgent flavours that are nothing short of irresistible. Beyond the extensive à la carte selection, there is a thoroughly appealing set menu that changes daily (available 12-6pm). A real gem!

Bib Gourmand • Traditional Cuisine, Turkish. The never-ending hustle and bustle of the lively Nişantaşı neighbourhood is what characterises this cosy establishment. Istanbulites and international guests alike stream in all day long, whether for a quick bite or an extended meal with friends. Genuine Turkish hospitality and great value for money are the biggest draws of Sade Beş Denizler Mutfağı. Authentic Anatolian specialities such as spicy beef tongue salad with chilli, and lamb-filled manti cooked in a fragrant broth infused with mint and lemon juice are celebrated here with the generosity you would expect. No fuss, just rich flavours you won't be able to get enough of.

Bib Gourmand • Country cooking. Tabal Gastronomi Evi is a civic project backed by the city of Niğde. Its mission is to showcase local traditions and regional ingredients – an initiative mission it fulfils with conviction. The enticing menu (you can't argue with the prices!) makes choosing a challenge. Will you go for the baked potatoes topped with crumbled blue cheese, dill and a rocket salad on the side? Or the juicy lamb cooked in the tandoori oven, served with rice mixed with almonds, currants and cinnamon? Whatever your decision, you are in for a treat. And the portions are large enough that they can easily be shared. At this lively establishment, which has a cosier dining area on the upper floor, you are fully immersed in local life.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. Tatbak has been the go-to kebab place for many an Istanbulite since 1960, and at no point in that time has it compromised on quality. With its lovely stained-glass windows and marble finishings, the vintage-style decor is attractive, but the local vibe and fantastic value for money are the main draws. Take, for instance, the Gaziantep version of spicy lahmacun (Turkish pizza), generously topped with vegetables and parsley, or the kebab with lamb sausages and minced beef – both are house favourites. The experienced chef skilfully balances sweet, spicy and tangy nuances, without losing sight of the importance of the right textures. Tatbak is a mecca for foodies!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Traditional Cuisine. As soon as you are seated in this very spacious and warmly decorated restaurant with its striking modern conservatory, you are served some mezze. This gesture speaks volumes about the generous nature of your hosts. The dishes here – especially the grill specialities – showcase the aromatic depth of traditional Turkish cuisine. Lamb shoulder, oven-roasted and succulent, is infused with spices, paprika and green chilli. A platter of assorted grilled meats is a must. Tea is of course served with a few complimentary desserts, such as fabulous baklava. There is no way that you will still be hungry when you leave!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Grills. Lamb, grilled dishes and mezze are the specialities of this lively, spacious restaurant spread over two floors. This is where traditional Turkish cuisine reveals all of its generosity. Picture the skewers arriving at your table, still sizzling from the grill. Imagine feasting on sac tava – diced lamb in a punchy tomato and chilli pepper sauce – or fabulous grilled aubergine and pepper with succulent minced lamb. No pretence here, just bold, satisfying flavours. The numerous photographs of celebrities who have dined here are proof that this place has been a crowd-pleaser since 1978.

Bib Gourmand • Turkish, Grills. If you want to experience a contemporary side of Istanbul, then head to the eighth floor of Hotel Momento. Its large windows afford views of the city's historical skyline (there is an even better view from the ninth-floor terrace!), and the decor is sleek and stylish. The menu revolves around mezze, kebabs and barbecued lamb dishes. You can watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen, skilfully blending spices and smoky flavours and presenting each dish with impeccable care. For instance, Turkish bread is served with juicy lamb kebab grilled over an open flame, accompanied by creamy yoghurt, parsley and pearl barley simmered in a tomato sauce with paprika, garlic and onion. Generous, spicy, unctuous and bold: a true Turkish feast!

Bib Gourmand • Turkish. Located in the heart of Istanbul's bustling old quarter, this establishment invites you to enter a slice of living history. Since opening its doors in 1919, the restaurant has remained a family affair, currently run by the third generation. The interior exudes timeless nostalgic charm with its elegant woodwork and Chesterfield banquettes. Watch the pastry chefs at work in the front section (takeaway available), then peruse the wide range of traditional treats in the display counter. You could start with the slow-cooked aubergine with minced lamb and cheesy béchamel sauce, follow that with the leg of lamb accompanied by roast potatoes and crisp vegetables, then finish off with the irresistible crispy pistachio-filled kadayıf – all at reasonable prices.

Bib Gourmand • Greek. Located on the edge of Borough Market, underneath its sister restaurant OMA, is this simple yet brilliantly effective ‘souvla bar’. Skewers are at the core of the menu – like the excellent slow-roast pork souvlaki – but it would be foolish to overlook the wonderful range of dips and beautifully puffed flatbreads served straight from the oven. It’s stripped-back cooking done with great skill, resulting in dishes so satisfying you’ll want to order them twice. They're deservedly busy, so make sure you snap up one of the limited bookings or get here for midday when they open.

Bib Gourmand • African, Brazilian. The team from Akoko are behind this appealing restaurant tucked underneath the arches in Borough Yards. An akara is a black-eyed pea fritter commonly found in West African and Brazilian cuisine, which gives a clue as to the influences found on the concise, well-priced menu. Sharp execution and careful balancing of flavours runs throughout, from the signature akara with a choice of toppings, to tender lamb dibi and a generous bowl of delicious efik rice. Some of the friendliest service around adds to the wonderfully warm experience.